>> teens need an "escape route"

from peer pressure

Children — especially adolescents — sometimes need an escape route from peer pressure that could lead to negative consequences. I encourage parents to teach their children creative strategies that can come in handy in precarious situations. Children need to know that every awkward, uncomfortable or unsafe situation has an escape route, some requiring on-the-spot creativity.

Here are some examples: Give your children permission to use you as an escape route if they feel uncomfortable accepting an invitation to a party or outing: “I’m sorry, but my dad won’t let me go.” If your teen finds himself in a car driven recklessly by a friend, have him yell, “I’m going to throw-up!” He will be dropped off at the nearest curb; no teen will allow someone to puke in his car. If a keg of beer is brought to a party, your teen can excuse herself for leaving early “to pick up a younger sibling.” If a kiss turns into an unwanted sexual advance during a party, your daughter can say, “Just one minute” as she dials a number on her cell phone. “Hi Dad, I need a ride home immediately.” And if that doesn’t work, there’s always the old standby “I’m going to throw-up.”

MAKE YOUR OWN NONALCOHOLIC DRINK My son came up with a clever way to avoid the peer pressure to drink alcohol at parties. When asked if he wants a drink, he says "Thanks; not right now. I'll grab one myself in a minute." He makes his own nonalcoholic drink later and even pops a cherry on top if one is available. He says it's less hassle this way because he doesn't have to explain to anyone why he doesn't drink alcohol. -- Anonymous