Lessons From Kids

To the Editor:

On Thursday evening, October 28, nine extraordinarily knowledgeable people gave of their time to better educate parents.  The subject: substance abuse.

Newtown Youth Services sponsored a forum entitled “Drugs:  Kids at Risk — What Parents Should Know.” Assembled were experts from a variety of fields, all of whom have direct contact with the issue of drugs.  Valuable information, tips on warning signs, how to avoid the problem areas, how to make a difference while your children are still young, what to do if you have to intervene when a problem has been discovered, treatment options, legal options, and many other useful and practical ideas to assist parents with the hardest job on earth were discussed at this workshop.

Unfortunately, so many times we find it difficult to fit one more meeting, one more activity into our too hectic lives.  Fortunately, about 30 people did make the squeeze. Their reactions ranged from shock, dismay, and disbelief to gratitude for the honesty with which our speakers addressed the topics.  Some of the issues were common, some new, at least to parents.  But all are affecting our children today.  Perhaps it is not they, themselves, but rather a friend or classmate for whom this is an issue.  It is also one that will not go away.

On behalf of Newtown Youth Services I would like to thank, and acknowledge, this gifted group of presenters: Bill Begg, MD, Danbury Hospital ER; Judy Blanchard, health coordinator for the Newtown School System; Theresa Federicic, Middle School social worker; John Hamilton, senior v.p. of LMG programs; Georgia Hynes, asst. v.p., Cornerstone-Eagle Hill; Judith Nickse, attorney at law; Debbie Richardson, NYS director; Carol Skolas, student assistance counselor at NHS; and Sgt. Chris Vanghele, Newtown Police Department.

                             Sincerely,

                       Rosanne G. Loring

   NYS Program and Parent Education Coordinator

41-A Main Street                        November 2, 1999