Lt. Matt Martin greets his wife and son during a homecoming celebration for the Raptors of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron July 5, 2009, at Naval Air Station North Island, Calif. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Rialyn Rodrigo)
By Elaine Wilson
Elaine.wilson@dma.mil
Sept. 28, 2009
I’m often tempted to turn on the TV in a quest for a quiet, argument-free evening meal. But I always hesitate, not wanting to lose out on a chance to talk to my kids without distraction or interruption.
Turns out my TV-free dinners may offer another major benefit: they may help keep my kids drug free.
Today’s Family Day, a national effort to encourage families to spend time together as a way to combat substance abuse. In his Family Day proclamation, President Barack Obama praises America’s families for their dedication and their efforts in keeping kids drug free.
“On Family Day, we honor the dedication of parents, commend the achievements of their children and celebrate the contributions our nation’s families have made to combat substance abuse among young people,” he said.
A strong home foundation can help steer children toward a positive future, Obama said.
“American families from every walk of life have taught us time and again that children raised in loving, caring homes have the ability to reject negative behaviors and reach their highest potential,” he said.
The key, Obama said, is to stay engaged.
“A strong and engaged family can make all the difference in helping young people make healthy decisions,” Obama said. “By coming together as a family and discussing the events of the day, parents can foster open communication, share joys and concerns and help guide their children toward healthy decision making.”
Obama said active parents “voicing their disapproval of drug use” offer the best prescription for keeping kids substance-free.
“It is our responsibility to talk with adolescents about the risks of abusing alcohol, tobacco, or prescription and illicit drugs, and other harmful behaviors,” he said.
Obama also acknowledged the 21st century challenges that can hinder parents’ efforts.
“Millions of women and men are struggling to balance the demands of their jobs with the needs of their families,” he said. “At the same time, our youngest generation faces countless distractions in their social environment.”
These distractions, Obama said, include electronic devices that have replaced trips to the playground and “pre-empted conversation.”
He noted that parents are under “significant stress and burdens to protect their children from harmful influences” and praised them for their efforts.
“A strong nation is made up of strong families, the president said, “and on this Family Day, we rededicate ourselves to ensuring that every American family has the chance to build a better, healthier future for themselves and their children.”
To see the president’s proclamation, visit http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Presidential-Proclamation-Family-Day-2009/.