To Share or Not to Share

(Part 15: In the Open blog series)

by Stephanie Pericich

A few weeks ago, I heard something in a webinar that got me thinking. The speaker screen-shared a document that listed the ways in which teens hide alcohol from their parents. Then the speaker repeatedly stated, “This document is for parents’ eyes only. Please do not copy it in any form or discuss the contents with your kids or teens, as I do not want to give them any ideas.”

This runs counter to what I generally hear in seminars on related topics, as most speakers encourage discussion among parents and their kids on difficult subjects such as alcohol usage. The reasoning is that if kids do not learn about substances from their parents, they will learn from their peers, and parents generally do a better job of emphasizing the dangers of usage and concealment.

So…who to believe? This is one of those situations where I can truly see both sides of the argument, but I lean toward discussing these issues openly with kids (after all, this blog series is called “In the Open.”)  I can, however, understand that curiosity may get the best of some kids, even if the dangers are clearly spelled out. The bottom line is that we as parents know our kids best, and we must all make decisions on what to share with them (and to what extent.) Speaking of sharing, I would love for you to share your thoughts on this matter.

Stephanie Pericich is a Parkway area wife, mother and an independent author of non-fiction and poetry. Ms. Pericich has volunteered to share her experiences and perspectives as a mother navigating the challenges of parenting for the purpose of encouraging community conversations about keeping kids safe and healthy.