NEW YEAR Keep kids drug-free by adopting resolutions, agencies suggest

One of the most important resolutions is to set a positive example yourself.
COLUMBUS -- The United Way of Central Ohio and the Drug-Free Action Alliance are offering parents a list of 12 New Year's resolutions to help keep their children free of illegal drugs.
UJanuary: Educate yourself about drugs your child might be exposed to by studying the chart in "Know!", the parent how-to guide available from the Drug-Free Action Alliance.
UFebruary: Schedule a family game night and find a way to approach the subject through conversation related to the game.
UMarch: Get to know your child's friends by volunteering to take them to and from after-school activities with your child.
UApril: Write down your expectations of no alcohol, tobacco or drug use in your home and discuss them with your family. Post the list in a visible place.
UMay: Get to know the parents of you child's friends by inviting them over for dinner.
UJune: Make sure your child, if left unattended during summer months, feels your presence by leaving a list of responsibilities for household chores or enforcing a strict phone-in-to-you policy.
UJuly: Enroll your child in swim classes or a day camp to avoid long periods of unsupervised time during the summer.
UAugust: Discuss positive activities for your child's involvement during the upcoming school year.
USeptember: Ask what your child is learning in school drug-education courses.
UOctober: Volunteer for activities where you can observe your child at school.
UNovember: Discuss the consequences of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use to make sure your child is well-versed in the reasons to avoid use.
UDecember: Set a positive example by hosting your holiday parties without alcohol or strictly monitoring its use. Discuss the reasons for this decision with your child.