Parents' checklist: pencils, anti-drug-use talk
As our children begin to count down the days until Labor Day, their thoughts go to school supplies, new clothes and backpacks. While discussing the new school year about to unfold for your child, please don't forget to discuss a most important issue - drug and alcohol abuse.

A recent survey published by the Partnership for a Drug Free America showed that only 54 percent of parents reported having a thorough discussion with their children about drugs such as heroin and cocaine. Less than 33 percent of parents discussed prescription drug abuse.

Another important study was recently released by the Office of National Drug Control Policy, which revealed that levels of THC - the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana - have reached the highest-ever levels since scientific analysis of the drug began in the late 1970s. According to the latest data on marijuana samples analyzed to date, the average amount of THC in seized samples has reached 8.5 percent. This compares to an average of just fewer than 4 percent reported in 1983 and represents more than a doubling in the potency of the drug since that time.

Please take this opportunity as a new school year is on the horizon to discuss this important issue with your child.

One of the main reasons that teens do not become involved in drugs is to avoid parental disapproval. Parents play an integral role in their child's development and to be most effective, a no-use message needs to be consistent and continuous.

For a free booklet, titled "Keeping Your Kids Drug-Free" please call (732) 663-1800, ext. 216 or visit our resource center at 1405 Highway 35, Ocean.

Mary Pat Angelini

executive director

Prevention First Ocean Township