Substance abuse prevention parenting program coming to Newton

Newton — The Lifelong Learning Center at Brookside Terrace will be hosting the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s (PDFNJ) 15 Minute Child Break program on Saturday, May 14 at 1 p.m. The program is a one hour multi-media presentation offered by the PDFNJ, according to Angelo Valente, PDFNJ’s executive director. Valente said information on the importance of the parent or caregiver’s role on substance abuse prevention will be discussed; as well as how to talk to children about drugs, signs of use and abuse to look for, current terminology, and trends of use. The presentation is based on New Jersey specific research conducted by the PDFNJ’s Center for Prevention Research. “This presentation is an opportunity for parents and caregivers to come out and find out the role they play and the power they have in preventing their children from abusing drugs and alcohol,” said Valente. Educators who attend the presentation will receive 1.5 hours of professional development credits. Certificates will be provided at the end of the presentation. Seating is limited to 50 participants. To learn more, call Virginia Shamlian at 973-300-0887.