Ballard Coalition to host “It’s Not My Kid” drug and alcohol awareness seminar this week

Local advocacy group Ballard Coalition is hosting a number of parent education seminars to help prevent underage drinking and substance abuse in our neighborhood this week.

The local group, led by parents Julie Campbell and Britta Bowman, aims to bring light to the important issues of drinking and substance abuse to families in Ballard, Queen Anne and Magnolia through education, advocacy and youth engagement.

“The number of students in our community that drinks and uses drugs is astoundingly high, and of great concern,” says Campbell.

This week’s “It’s Not My Kid” seminars are set to include an analysis of recent student data on drug and alcohol use, followed by tips on parent coaching skills to keep teens safe.

Lisa Davidson from the Seattle School district will present an analysis of the Seattle School’s newest data, including interesting information on kids’ attitudes towards marijuana and alcohol use. Afterwards, Kathryn Korch from SAMA will speak to us about how to coach your kids through this landscape and how to clarify family rules and expectations. Questions and open discussion will follow afterwards.

Check out the seminar locations, times and dates below:

• Tuesday October 7 – Ballard High School Library (1418 NW 65th St) from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Tuesday October 14 – Whitman Middle School Library (9201 15th Ave NW) from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Tuesday October 21 – McClure Middle School Library (1915 1st Ave W) from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Each seminar is free and all are welcome to attend. To learn more about Ballard Coalition click here.