DINNERTIME REINFORCES KIDS' VALUES

DEAR ANN: For several years, research and teen surveys have consistently
revealed that the more often children eat dinner with their parents, the
less likely they are to smoke, drink or use illegal drugs.

To remind parents of the importance of family dinners, the National Center
on Addiction and Substance Abuse is launching an annual event called
"Family Day: A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children." The event will take
place on the fourth Monday in September. This year, the date is Sept. 24.

Our goal is to create a symbolic day to highlight the importance of
parental involvement and encourage Americans to make family dinners a
regular feature of their lives.

"Parent Power" is the most potent and underutilized tool to prevent teen
substance abuse. Family dinners are a great way to put "Parent Power" to
work to keep our children drug-free.

Joseph A. Califano Jr., President,
The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia
University, New York

DEAR JOE CALIFANO: What a wonderful idea! The key to helping our children
grow up drug-free is communication, and the kitchen table provides the
ideal environment.

I hope every family in America will be sure to schedule dinner together on
Monday. It doesn't have to be a gourmet meal. Take-out pizza will do. The
point is to spend time with your children, talking about their day and
yours, finding ways to work through problems and letting your children know
you are available.