Friday, April 26, 2024
Major Drug Seizures & Arrests in Polk County and Central Florida
Americans Under Age 20 Exposed to Delta-8 THC
Map of
THC-related emergency department visits and hospitalization
Mapping the Delta-8, Delta-9, or Any THC-Related
Emergency Department Visits and Hospitalizations Through News Reports | Get
Smart About Drugs
More info
https://www.justthinktwice.gov/children-and-teens-make-majority-delta-8-thc-exposures
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/what-is-delta-8
Thursday, April 25, 2024
Thursday Thoughts: How Can Positive Reinforcement Benefit Children?
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool to help children learn to behave, build confidence, and increase self-esteem. It can even help motivate them to take on challenges in the future. However, it’s equally important to remember there can be too much of a good thing.
Parents should praise both big and small
accomplishments, but it’s not needed for every little action. Instead, pick and
choose moments when kids have worked hard, gone beyond to show kindness, or
modeled new positive behaviors.
Here are some suggestions for using positive reinforcement:
*Verbal
praise –
be specific about what your child did well
*Tangible rewards – provide something your child enjoys like stickers or small treats
*Activity reinforcers – reward kids with a preferred
activity like games or computer time
*Praise efforts & accomplishments – to encourage positive behavior
*Privileges – recognition helps motivate
children to continue positive behavior
*Schedule reinforcement – a routine can provide
opportunities for positive reinforcement
*Reinforce immediately – good behavior is more likely to be repeated if reinforcement is given right away
It is equally important to acknowledge when mistakes are made. Do this in a positive way so kids can learn from the situation, analyze their mistakes, and look for potential solutions. Simply ask what went right, what went wrong, and what can be done better next time.
Teaching kids to reframe mistakes and find potential solutions shows them that you are their supporter and it’s safe to come to you with their problems - and that's something positive that all good parents want to encourage!
Celebrating Healthy Fun & Positive Social Norms Today!
Wednesday, April 24, 2024
Alcohol Awareness Month: Teen Tips to Avoid Drinking
During the 4th week of Alcohol Awareness Month, we recognize that it can be hard for teens to say no when friends are drinking. Empowering yourself with knowledge showcases strength and individuality and can help you stand your ground against peer pressure.
Different strategies for refusing
alcohol work for different people. Some find it helps to say no without giving
an explanation by saying “I’m not into drinking” or “A close relative
died from drinking.” Others think offering a reason works better, such as
saying it will get you in trouble or you’ve seen negative effects it has on
others. It’s not about making excuses, it’s about standing up for yourself and
how you feel. Whichever you choose, it helps to plan your responses and be
clear and direct – preparing ahead of time can help you handle situations with
confidence. Here are some helpful tips:
*Participate in Alcohol-Free Activities – fun activities naturally deter
alcohol use. Plan alternate
activities with friends that aren’t focused on drinking – see a movie, head out
shopping, or go play basketball, mini-golf, or bowling. Everyone will have a better time than
engaging in risky behaviors that tend to occur when teens are under the
influence of alcohol.
*Shift the Blame – use your parents or coaches as an excuse for not wanting to face tough consequences, like “I already got in trouble at home, I don’t want to go through that again.” or “I have a game tomorrow, my coach will kill me.” These are valid excuses most kids can relate to in their lives.
*Crack a Joke – humor can be a great way to change the subject and take the attention away from you – and away from drinking.
*Involve Like-Minded Friends – surround yourself with friends who either don’t drink or respect your choice not to. A buddy system can also help when you’re at a gathering where alcohol is present so you can support each other while there and even leave together if you want to.
*Educate & Communicate - talk with parents or trusted adults about drinking and plan strategies to handle tough situations. Understand the risks that go along with underage drinking - it can strengthen your resolve to stay sober.
*Don't Believe the Hype - you're not alone - most teen are NOT drinking. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), teen binge drinking has declined over recent years. Close to home, statistics collected among 6-12 grade students in Polk County annually show that 84% of Polk Teens CHOOSE NOT to Drink Alcohol (Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey 2022, FYSAS).
*Know Your Goals & Stick to Them - think about what is most important to you. This can help you make decisions that align with your best interests. When you realize YOU are among the majority who do make healthy choices, it can empower you to avoid peer pressure, embrace healthier habits, and refrain from risky behaviors. When you surround yourself with like-minded people, you can help each other continue to make smart choices.
*Remember, your choices are your own – don’t give anyone the power to dictate your actions.
Learn More
Time to Clean Out Your Home Medicine Cabinet
Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Surge in Fentanyl Poisoning Among American Children
IAA Public Safety Spot: One Pill Can Kill
https://inneractblogtownhallmeeting.blogspot.com/2024/04/iaa-public-safety-awareness-ad-fentanyl.html
The New England Journal of Medicine
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2313270)