BREAK BREAD ON 'FAMILY DAY'

Reference the Aug. 26 editorial, "Back to school."

Parents are the anti-drugs, and it doesn't take much to make a difference
with youth. Simply asking questions, talking or even just spending fun time
together can be what makes for a positive influence on the decisions that
youth may make.

The Historic Triangle Substance Abuse Coalition has been promoting the idea
of increased parental involvement, communication and positive management
skills among the parents in our community since its inception in 1999.

We have coordinated efforts with local agencies that included Bacon Street,
the Colonial Services Board, York-Poquoson Social Services, Virginia
Extension Office, Big Brothers and Big Sisters and others to provide a
science-based parenting program (Strengthening Families) that focuses on
increasing the protective factors that are so important for substance abuse
prevention.

And, as part of our continuing effort to help youth remain drug-free, we
are also organizing our first annual "Family Day," which kicks off Sept. 23.

Family Day is a national effort to encourage all families to eat dinner
together as a way to prevent teen substance abuse. The event was started by
The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University
(CASA,) whose research has consistently shown that the more often children
eat dinner with their parents, the less likely they are to smoke, drink or
use illicit drugs.

And while the event focuses on a single day, it is hoped that it will help
families start trends of sharing meals together regularly.

Erika Cohane, Prevention specialist, Historic Triangle Substance Abuse
Coalition, Williamsburg