Short, frequent discussions have a lasting impact on your child’s decisions about many things, including the abuse of potentially addictive substances. Community Connections provides a helpful suggestion each week in the Bulletin to help the conversations. The suggestions come from people around Lincoln County.

This week: Talk to your kids about substance related messages they see on TV, in movies, or at school. “What do you feel about the things you’ve seen or heard?” You’ll learn a great deal about what they’re thinking. Suggestion by Shane Belgum, Nebraska State Patrol

• Don’t lecture.

• Be positive.

• Keep an open mind.

• Be calm and relaxed.

• Put yourself in their shoes.

• Know what you want to accomplish.