TEENS and ALCOHOLA Program of the Napa County Office of Education
Thank you to all the volunteers who have been helping set up and distribute the underage drinking prevention flyers and static clings. See the attached article in the Napa Valley Register, highlighting a group of middle school girls who went door-to-door to pass out the "Underage Drinking is Against the Law" stickers. We are so proud of them! The Friday Night Live groups are also passing out stickers at the new Napa ice rink, and Valley Oak students have been volunteering as well!
In order to raise awareness and educate the local community on the recent update of Napa County's Social Host Ordinance, Catalyst member organizations such as Friday Night Live, Health & Human Services, Queen of the Valley Medical Center, Napa Valley Vintners, Justin Siena High School, Boys & Girls Clubs, and the DARE Foundation are teaming up to spread the word.
Hand-Out for Parents!
The Catalyst Coalition has recently put together a publication for parents on how to talk with their kids about alcohol. Information includes valuable tips on a range of topics, such as alcohol and health, parties, driving, and more. Appropriate for elementary, middle, and high schoolers. Click on each picture below to access the publication online.
All Kids Should Be Screened for Alcohol Use, Pediatricians Say
The American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP) has recently released a revised policy report recommending doctors screen all of their young patients for alcohol use, starting in middle school.
According to lead author, Patricia Kokotailo of the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, "A remarkable amount of brain development is still occurring for young people through their 20's. This policy statement provides better evidence about how alcohol affects the brains of young people and why it is important to screen children." (Source: www.jointogether.org, 2010)
As a concerned parent, ask your teen's pediatrician to talk to your child about drugs and alcohol at your next visit. Your action could save lives!