Proactive Parenting

PRE-CRISIS INDICATORS

THESE ARE SOME OF THE SIGNS YOU MAY SEE PRIOR TO A VIOLENT CONFRONTATION:

  • Clustering of rival groups (schools, parks, parking lots, movie theaters, etc.)
  • Movement of groups not common in your neighborhood (carloads of kids not from your neighborhood)
  • Reports of fights and arguments on school property (bus stops, on buses, lunch hours, bus routes)
  • Increase in gang graffiti
  • Crossing out of gang graffiti
  • Violent incidents reported in your neighborhood
  • Sudden / excessive change in dress (wearing the same color / flying rags)

caringWHAT CAN I DO AS A PARENT?

  • Praise your children for doing well
  • Encourage your children to participate in positive activities
  • Get to know your children’s friends and their families
  • Set the example / be a positive role model
  • Talk to your children about gangs and their destructive nature
  • Talk and listen to your children
  • Spend quality time with your children
  • Put a high value on education
  • Identify with positive role models
  • Involve your children in positive group activities

SUGGESTED PARENTING TIPS

  • Be a good observer – pay attention to your child’s behavior
  • Learn real names of your children’s friends
  • Monitor living space for gang paraphernalia, weapons, and drugs
  • Report all crimes
  • Seek the facts – kids will tell you what you want to hear
  • Set clear limits – follow through with discipline if they break the rules
  • Teach your children decision making skills – help them make the right choices
  • Team up with other parents