Drug Abuse
Preteen pressures Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Describes the dangers of drugs and provides information about getting help for substance abuse problems.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the stories in the book make you feel about the choices people made regarding drugs?
What are some ways the characters could have avoided or handled their situations differently?
Why do you think people might start using drugs, even when they know it can be harmful?
What can we do as a family to support each other in making healthy choices?
What would you say to a friend if you saw them in a situation like those described in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your thoughts on the book and its themes, setting an open and trusting tone for the conversation.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book, validating their opinions and emotions.
Use examples from the book to discuss broader life lessons, helping your child connect the dots between actions and consequences.
Provide reassurance and support, emphasizing that it’s okay to ask for help and talk about difficult subjects like drug abuse.
Emphasize the importance of making informed decisions, discussing how knowledge and awareness can be powerful tools.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the consequences of drug abuse
Explanation: The book showcases various scenarios where individuals face negative outcomes due to drug abuse, emphasizing the importance of decision-making and the consequences that follow.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by making informed choices when confronted with peer pressure or situations involving drugs. This promotes responsible behavior and awareness of the effects of their decisions.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards those struggling with addiction
Explanation: Through character development and storytelling, the book portrays the struggles and challenges faced by people dealing with addiction, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children learn to view individuals struggling with addiction with compassion and understanding, rather than judgment, which can translate to more supportive interactions in their communities and schools.
Example Lesson: The importance of seeking help
Explanation: Characters in the stories often turn to adults, counselors, or support groups for help, demonstrating the importance of seeking assistance when dealing with drug-related issues.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to reach out for help from trusted adults or professionals when they encounter difficult or confusing situations, promoting openness and proactive problem-solving.
Example Lesson: The role of community in supporting recovery
Explanation: The book illustrates how friends, family, and community members can play a crucial role in an individual's recovery process, emphasizing the power of communal support.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be active and supportive members of their community, understanding that their actions can positively impact others’ lives, especially those who are vulnerable.