Free event: Talking with children and young people about drugs & alcohol

Teenagers, alcohol and other drugs: what’s happening, what’s out there and how much influence do parents really have?

These questions and more will be discussed as part of an upcoming education session for parents, carers and educators which will provide practical advice on how to communicate effectively with young people about drugs and alcohol.

Hosted by Council, the Talking with children and young people about drugs & alcohol parent information event will be held on Tuesday 17 September, from 7pm to 9pm, at Karralyka in Ringwood East.

Join Geoff Bayldon, an experienced youth worker and Youth Support and Advocacy Service (YSAS) senior trainer on drug and alcohol prevention and rehabilitation, as he explores factual information about prevention, harm reduction and safe choices, including:

Mayor of Maroondah and Maroondah Community Safety Committee Chair, Cr Rob Steane, said the session was a must for any parent seeking helpful advice and support.

“As a parent, you may be unsure how to talk to or even protect your child from the misuse of alcohol and drugs.

“This session will provide tips for busy, everyday parents and educators to teach children and young people how to be confidently aware of the potential dangers, and explains why these are the most vulnerable years,” Cr Steane said.

“Parenting a young person involves being well informed about the facts and supporting them to manage the risks. Adolescence in particular can be a tricky time. Teenagers are just beginning to establish their identity and this often means testing the limits of parental controls.

“Our goal is to raise our children to become successful, responsible adults by helping prepare them to thrive in a world full of challenges. One of the most important things they must know is how to manage life with a clear mind, free of drugs and substances,” he said.

Geoff Bayldon is an experienced youth worker and has worked for 14 years across many of Youth Support and Advocacy Service programs, including Outreach, Drug Withdrawal Unit, and long-term Residential Rehabilitation.

Bookings can be made online and further information on the session can be found on the Parenting information sessions page. For more information on this event and other parent information sessions, contact Cathie Wills on 9294 5740 or email [email protected]

Presented by: Geoff Bayldon - Youth Support and Advocacy Service (YSAS) Date: Tuesday 17 September 2019 Time: 7pm to 9pm Venue: Karralyka, Mines Road, Ringwood East Cost: Free (teenagers are welcome to attend with their parent/carer)