RAISING KIDS DRUG-FREE ON THE OUTER BANKS
The Outer Banks is a unique and beautiful place to raise a family. Our small town flavor encourages community involvement. Our beaches and resort atmosphere provide many opportunities for family outings and abundant summer jobs for our young people. The things that make this area so inviting, can also pose unique challenges to keeping our children drug-free.
SPECIAL TIPS FOR RAISING KIDS DRUG-FREE ON THE OUTER BANKS:
1. Vacant rental houses can be a tempting space for youth to hang out free of adult supervision.
2. Unsupervised parties are not uncommon in our beach community and can quickly get out of control. Oftentimes a relative’s vacant house is used for a party.
3. Summer employment opportunities are plentiful for Dare County youth. Our resort environment, which allows youth to earn ample dollars throughout their summer break, also provides many opportunities to “party” with an older and sometimes riskier crowd.
4. Always know where your children are and whom they are with.
5. Get to know all the adults your children will be spending time with.
6. Talk often with your children about the dangers of using drugs and alcohol.
7. Relocated families – our beautiful beach environment attracts many new families to our community. Even under the best of circumstances, a new home is a high stress factor for the entire family. Teens are especially vulnerable. Parents relocating to our area should make an extra effort to stay involved in their children’s lives. It is a good idea to seek opportunities to get to know your teen’s new friends and their families.