How to prevent teenage girls from
drinking, doing drugs and having
sex outlined in new parents publication

(BW FEATURES) - What's the formula for sex among teenage girls? Alcohol or drugs plus unsupervised time, especially between 3 and 6 on weekday afternoons.

This formula applies to girls of every race, class, and family situation. Despite news that sexual activity among teenage girls has declined slightly, parents need to know that alcohol and drug use by girls is up and that 40% of girls will be pregnant by age 20.
How can parents help avoid these problems? Here are a few suggestions from DAUGHTERS Newsletter:

1.	Make sure she understands the perils of teenage sex. For instance: Most girls regret it. Sexually transmitted diseases are prevalent. Early sex can physically harm girls and has been shown to lead to cervical cancer. Teenage sex often damages self-esteem. Pregnancy.

2.

Make sure she knows the impact of alcohol and drugs. For instance: 30% to 100% more alcohol enters a girl's blood stream than a boy's. Alcohol and drugs decrease inhibitions and can increase sexual desire. Alcohol and drugs change the behavior of her cohorts, too. Even a good friend may take advantage of her.

3.	Get her involved in sports or other afternoon activities.

4.	Get her involved in sports or other afternoon activities. Be aware of what is going on in her school and other places she frequents. It will be a relief to her that you know.

5.	De-mystify the boys she is around by inviting them into your home for family time. A little spinach in his teeth can work wonders.

6.	Continue to offer her hugs.

7.	Make sure she has good female and male role models.

8.	Communicate your values to her. She listens more than you think.

9.	Spend time with her. And spend most of the time listening.

"There is much more to raising a girl than there used to be," says Jack Hoos, publisher of DAUGHTERS Newsletter. "But parents who pay attention can anticipate trouble and help their daughters navigate challenges like social pressure, changing body shape, low self-esteem, boy obsession, sibling squabbles, depression, and falling grades."

DAUGHTERS is written by professionals and parents, and is guided by an extensive board of advisors including physicians, nutritionists, psychologists, and educators. A one year subscription (8 issues) to DAUGHTERS costs $25. To subscribe or for more information about DAUGHTERS, call 1-800-829-1088.