Need new ways to protect our kids

With teenage drinking on the rise and the number of alcohol related accidents, it's no wonder parents like Val Evalen are worried about their children. The fact that kids will find a way to drink and you can't be everywhere all the time, what measures can parents take to protect their kids? When parents' primary concern is the safety of their kids, what can you do as a parent to be sure there making good decisions in your absence, even at events such as a party? I'm not condoning throwing a party for 70 in your basement, but teenagers are going to find a way to do what they want; it's time for parents to get creative in their methods.

Grounding doesn't always work; in some ways more than others, it just makes kids more resentful. From my own firsthand experiences, sometimes the best way to let a kid learn is by letting them learn for themselves. Other ways are telling them of your own experiences as a kid and letting them know you understand you just don't want them to make the same mistakes you did. You shouldn't avoid the topic of drinking, but share with your kids the alternatives to drinking, but most importantly remind them it is simply against the law. If you break the law, you pay the price, be it jail, fines, or public service.

In my opinion, Evalen didn't do enough to protect his kid, but at least he was doing something about it. His method didn't work so now it's time to think of an alternative that does.

Robyn St. John

Glen Ellyn