Parents
Afternoons R.O.C.K. in Indiana is an after school drug prevention program for youth aged 10 to 14 years in 4th through 8th grade; the most vulnerable time for experimentation. The program is held in the hours after school at a time when youth are most likely to experiment with drugs. Afternoons R.O.C.K. in Indiana promotes positive social relationships and skills during these of unsupervised time during which today's youth often find themselves tempted to engage in risky behaviors like trying alcohol, tobacco and other drugs as well as vandalism, gang activity, and sexual experimentation. Afternoons R.O.C.K. in Indiana provides a structured, supervised after school activity and an invaluable tool for youth to learn about the dangers of drugs, alcohol, and gambling. The program is at no cost to families.
The acronym "R.O.C.K." represents the mission of the program to provide Recreation, Object lessons, Culture and values and Knowledge thru focused and supportive prevention activities designed to teach youth about social and media influences, conflict resolution and refusal/resistance skills, gang and violence prevention and the structuring of leisure time to be free of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use.
Suggested Links
- Connecting afterschool providers to Federal resources that support children and youth during out-of-school hours.
What can parents do?
As a parent, your role in drug prevention is crucial. According to the antidrug.com, two-thirds of teens say that losing their parents' respect and pride is one of the main reasons they don't smoke marijuana or use other drugs.
As a role model, setting an example with your healthy lifestyle is important in conveying the important message of being drug free. Healthy coping mechanisms, lifestyle choices, and staying away from drugs and alcohol are all part of setting a good example. Between the years of 10-14, an individual goes through many changes physiologically, socially, and emotionally. During this difficult transition, youth may use drugs to cope with these changes and attempt to fit in with their peers.
If you are struggling with these issues, please contact the following hotlines for more information:
- Federal Addictions Hotline 800-662-4357
- Problem Gamblers Hotline 800-664-8448
- National Suicide Prevention Hotline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Getting involved in your child's life is important to show that you care, and to monitor changes in lifestyle. Having dinner together and finding a common interest or activity to pursue together are both ways to strengthen your relationship. Make firm and consistent rules so that your child knows you care. Be aware of the different types of drugs and symptoms of drug use. Finally, be proactive and aware: know who, what, when, and where your child will be. Know your child's friends and their parents.
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