39% of youth age 12-17 have gambled in the past year, according to the 2014-15 NYS OASAS Youth Development Survey. As a community of parents, educators, and community leaders we must make it a priority to discuss this important topic along with the other issues we already address, such as drugs and alcohol. March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month and the perfect time to learn more about this topic.
Gambling can become an addiction for anyone, including a teen. A gambling problem can cause many issues including damage to relationships, financial distress, and problems in school. Luckily, there are things you can do to help prevent your child from gambling.
Start with educating yourself on the topic of gambling. Whether you are a parent, a teen, or a community leader you can visit youthdecideny.org to learn more about underage gambling prevention.
After you have additional knowledge, talk to your child. When you have a conversation about the risks of gambling, make sure you are listening to what they have to say. Ask them what they already know (or think they know!) and share with them things you have learned about what gambling is and the risks of underage gambling.
Set expectations in your home around gambling behaviors. Create rules regarding this behavior and make sure to stick to them. Make sure your child knows the consequences of underage gambling AND what to do if they find they are caught up in gambling.
For more information on this topic, join us this month for one of our interactive presentations on the convergence of gambling and gaming.
To register for the March 30th 6-7pm EST presentation click:
https://forms.gle/E3vL1zFpWuKVjPpP6
To register for the March 31st 11am-12pm EST presentation click:
https://forms.gle/y8JYY5gQCEzF9pst6
We hope to see you there!