Nurse Jana Michael

Step In To Health!!!
The Internet is a wonderful source for health information. Here are some sites you might like to browse:

http://www.healthy.net
http://www.intelihealth.com

I want to remind parents of 8th grade students that Texas immunization law states that a student in public schools must have a Diphtheria/Tetanus shot (DT) every ten years to remain in school. In order for your child to register for 9th grade he/she must show proof of immunization to the school nurse.

POINTS FOR PARENTS
About Teens and Alcohol
Part of growing up involves trying new things. Most teens try using alcohol. Teens use alcohol for many reasons, including to reduce stress, to feel grown up, to fit in, because it feels good, out of curiosity, because their parents do, and because it is easy to get. It is hard to know which teens will only try alcohol, which will use alcohol casually, and which will develop serious problems with alcohol use. Follow the tips below to help lower the chance that your teen will use or abuse alcohol.

Quick Facts About Tobacco
Ø Using alcohol and tobacco at a young age, especially before high school-increases the risk for using other drugs later, such as marijuana and cocaine.

Quick Facts About AlcoholØ Alcohol-related car crashes are a leading cause of death for teenagers and young adults.

Ø Alcohol use is involved in many drownings, suicides, homicides, and injuries.

Ø Alcohol is the drug choice among teens.

Ø Trying alcohol often begins at 12 or 13 years of age.

Ø Half of all 8th grade and 80% of 12th grade students have tried alcohol.

Ø Many teens abuse alcohol. As early as the 8th grade, some students report heavy drinking.

Ø Most states have "zero-tolerance" laws. This means that underage drivers (less that 21 years) with even a trace of alcohol on their breath will lose their drivers license.

Tips for Parents
Ø Talk about family expectations and rules about alcohol use. Clearly state and enforce the consequences for breaking the rules.

Ø Talk about personal, family, social, or religious values that give your teen reasons not to drink.

Ø Make it clear that drinking and driving or riding with someone who has been drinking will not be tolerated. Ask your teen to call for a ride, take a cab, or call for permission to stay overnight if he or she or a friend who is driving has been drinking. This does not give teens permission to drink, it tells them that their safety is most important.

Ø Talk to your teen about ways to handle pressure from friends to drink. Teach your teen how to say "no" and to suggest doing something different (safe). To feel comfortable talking openly with you, your teen needs to know that you will not punish him or her for being honest.

Ø When your teen wants to talk about alcohol, listen to his or her opinions, help him or her make good decisions, treat him or her with respect.

Ø Get to know your teen's friends. Know where they hang out and what they are doing. Talk with the friends parents about alcohol.

Ø Be a role model. If you drink, do so responsibly. Never drink and drive! Do not use alcohol as a way to cope with stress, depression, or anger. Alcohol can only make problems worse in the long run.