PARENT NETWORK

Parent Network is informal groups of parents who communicate with each other on a regular basis.  Kids understand how to network.  They stay in touch, they know each others' telephone numbers, they find out what's going on and they plan activities together.

Parents need to learn the names of the friends of their children.   And, they need to get to know the parents of friends.  But parents often hesitate to call each other.

Parent Network removes that hesitation.  They encourage parents to get in touch, to become friends, to share ideas about rules and standards and to help each other.

How Do I Begin?

Pick up the phone. Call the parents of one or more of your children's friends.  With their help, develop a list of parents whose children know your children - through school, sports, music, church or neighborhoods.  Invite them to attend a Parent Network meeting at your school.

Find out the family rules that you and other parents share.   Are you really the only parent in town who establishes a curfew?  Are you the only parent who calls to find out about a party?  See where you and others agree. Exchange ideas!  Then, put together your personal Parent Network telephone list.

Use Your Network for Positive Parenting

When your pre-teen or teenager is invited to a party, call the parent and ask:

• Will you be at home?
• What activities are planned?
• What are the hours?
• Can I help with transportation or snacks?

Share information on laws affecting young people:

• Do other parents know that their teens will lose their drivers' licenses after conviction for an alcohol or drug offense?  Even when their teen wasn't driving?  For a first offense, the revocation may be for one year plus another written and driving test, plus reinstatement fee and higher insurance costs.

Encourage other parents to call you when there is a problem.

• You want to know about dangerous situations.  And, in return for the favor, promise to protect their kids.

Use the Parent Network to spread the word about:

• sports, music, school or neighborhood activities.  Invite parents to open houses or PTG meetings at school (their children may have neglected to deliver the notices!).  Some parents need help with transportation or just encouragement.

If your children haven't checked in, get help locating them.

• For their safety, you should know where your children are at all times.  Your kids . . . your job.  Ask for help and give help in return.

Common Sense Safety Tips

• Stand tall and walk confidently.
• Trust your instincts.  If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave quickly.
• Don't hang out with kids who may be involved in gangs.
• If you get into an argument, don't let it grow into a fight.  Cool off, talk it out, walk away if you have to.
• Don't use alcohol or drugs.  They encourage violence.
• Personal risk is reduced when you practice good home security and street safety habits.
• Don't ever borrow a weapon.  If you take a gun to school, you will be expelled.
• Help younger children settle disputes without using fists or weapons.

For more information about Parent Network, or for resource referral, call Volunteers of America at 509/624-2378.