Giving children a sense of confidence is the best defense against peer pressure that can lead to experimentation with alcohol and other drugs. Build your child's self-esteem with praise and avoid frequent criticism. Listen to what your child says. Pay attention, and be helpful, particularly if your child seems lonely or depressed. Take preventive actions to minimize injury and illness.
Good health is no accident.
The AMA encourages all Americans to adopt preventive measures to stay safe and healthy. For children, make sure playtime is a safe time. Immunizations are also an important part of preventive health care for children. Make sure that children get immunized on schedule, so that you can provide the best available defense against many dangerous childhood diseases. Preventive health care is just as important for adults.