General Resources

attach pdf of dev position

FAQ’s

Q ~ What are the new social host ordinances?

Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, and Knollwood each are now covered by “social host ordinances” which hold any person, not just parents, accountable for events at which kids are drinking or using drugs. These rules can be enforced not only at homes, but also other locations such as hotels, parks, banquet halls, as well as vehicles such as limousines, buses, and boats. Violators face fines of up to $2,500. The new social host ordinances are one important step in a comprehensive effort underway to significantly reduce the rate of underage drinking and other drug use.

Q ~ We plan to host a post prom party for our kids. If some teens bring in alcohol without our knowledge, can we be held responsible?

There are many pressures on our youth to use alcohol and drugs, the greatest coming from their peers. Adults can add to the confusion about acceptability of drinking if they do not monitor teen gatherings.

This booklet is designed to help parents guide their teens when hosting or attending parties.

Each family should use this booklet to establish consistent standards in light of their own values and attitudes.

Remember, these are guidelines. Some may be too restrictive or too permissive for some families.

We recommend parents come together to discuss mutual challenges of parenting and offer support of one another. Parents should not feel isolated in their efforts. By supporting one another, consistent standards can be established that will help all of us in our community. Remember, parents can be held liable for a minor’s
behavior in their home.

Join the Parent Network!

Your Teen Hosting A Party

Set basic ground rules and expectations with your teen before the party.

Approximately 80 8th graders and parents attended this March 22 session. Resources available below.

Session Presentation & Notes

Here are some signs and symptoms to look out for if you are concerned about the possibility of a loved one being involved with substance abuse of any kind. Different drugs produce different effects resulting in slight variations in outward indications. Some signs and symptoms are specific to opiates and narcotics and distinct from those experienced with central nervous stimulants like cocaine or depressants like alcohol.

The National Library of Medicine documents these telltale signs in drug-taking children that should alert parents:

• Change in friends. Hanging out with a new group.
• Seclusive behavior - long periods spent in self imposed isolation.
• Long, unexplained absences.
• Lying and stealing.
• Involvement on the wrong side of the law.
• Deteriorating family relationships.
• Obvious intoxication, delirious, incoherent or unconscious.
• Changes in behavior and attitude.
• Decrease in school performance.