Monday, September 22nd, marks the 25th Anniversary of Family Day: Making Every Day Special, founded in 2001 by the Center on Addiction.  Research by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University has consistently found that the more often children eat dinner with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink, or use other drugs.  Conversations during mealtime are a way for parents to stay connected and involved with their children.  Including youth in meal prep and clean-up instills a sense of responsibility and they are likely to feel like part of a team.  In addition to family bonding, kids who eat with their families are more likely to learn healthy eating habits, eat smaller portions, do better in school, and are less likely to stress about food.  Depending on weather, a picnic with board games would be a fun way to enjoy nature and appreciate each other’s company.

Televisions, cell phones, and other mobile devices should be turned off during dinner so each person can share the day’s events without distractions.  (The exception would be if a family member is separated by distance and phone/virtual technology is the primary means of communication.)  Trips in the vehicle can also be used as teachable, quality bonding time, as parents have a “captive” audience.  The earlier parents start connecting with their kids, the better.  If kids aren’t used to talking to their parents about what’s going on in their lives when they are eight or ten, it will be more difficult to get them talking when they are older.    

Teens are at greater risk of substance abuse as they move from middle school to high school, so, parents need to be especially attentive during this transition period.

Teens are at greater risk of substance abuse as they move from middle school to high school, so, parents need to be especially attentive during this transition period. If parents are unsure of how to start an age-appropriate conversation, they can access tips in the Parent Toolkit on the CASA Family Day website. Other valuable information can also be found in the toolkit, such as “connecting” with kids, preventing substance use, background facts on substance use, family activities and worksheets, and tips for talking to kids about substance use. Parents can also sign up on the website to receive a parent newsletter. Family photos and/or videos can be shared on social media using #MyFamilySelfie If you share family photos tag PPAC Central on Facebook or Instagram to show us and other families how you enjoy spending time as a family.

Be creative!  Ask family members what healthy, positive activity they would like to try as a family unit.  Embrace this “silver” milestone with extra motivation and a special meal! Below are some ideas to get the creativity flowing.

• Host a family meal: This is the original focus of National Family Day, and research shows that eating together regularly can strengthen family bonds.
• Create a photo memory book: Work together to create a physical or digital scrapbook of favorite family photos and memories. Apps like Canva or iMovie can help you create a fun photo montage or video.
• Have a family game night: Get out the board games, card games, or even team-based video games. This activity builds cooperation and creates lots of laughter.
• Volunteer as a family: Give back to your community by volunteering at a food bank, animal shelter, or other local charity. This is a great way to solidify family values.
• Cook or bake together: Try a new recipe, make homemade pizzas, or bake cookies. Giving everyone a role in the kitchen builds teamwork and creates a delicious reward. 

Celebrate with parents nationwide and pledge to commit to being a STAR:

Spend time with your kids by playing games, taking a walk on local trails, or enjoying another family activity.

Talk to them about their friends, interests, and the dangers of using substances.

Answer their questions and listen to what they say.

Recognize that parents have the power to keep their kids substance-free! A warm, supportive relationship between parents and their children is linked to better judgement, increased self-control, and resilience, which are strengths that help reduce the risk of future drug use. It is okay to not have all the answers to their questions, let them know you have to look something up. Information and facts on alcohol, nicotine, THC, and other substances can be found at TalkItOver.org.

Remember, parental engagement does make a difference, and prevention works!