Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1542747
12 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • Special Issue 2026 sponsored material WRITTEN BY CAMILLE TURNER HEALTHY CHOICES START EARLY: Helping Families Navigate Gaming and Gambling Concerns As families look to the start of a new year, many are thinking about the hab- its, from healthier rou nes to be er balance around screens and technology, they want to encourage in their children. For parents of adolescents, ques- ons about gaming and gambling can feel especially complex. The good news is that early awareness, open communica on, and clear boundaries can make a meaningful diff erence, and families don't have to navigate these concerns alone. "Preven on is laying that founda on of informa on, educa on, knowledge, and resources, so that people can make healthy choices for themselves," said Michelle Wagaman, Preven on and Early Interven on Services Director of the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board (RACSB). She con nued, "And we, as a community, can build up protec ve factors. We can build someone up so they're not curious or bored to go explore substances because their basic needs are being met – there's family stabil- ity, nourishment, housing stability, and quality ac vi es that keep them engaged." As part of the RACSB's mission to help community members live their best possible lives, the organiza on plays a role in suppor ng the mental health and well-being of individuals and families across the region. Through its Preven on and Early Interven on Services, RACSB works proac vely with schools, fami- lies, and community partners to reduce risk factors, strengthen protec ve skills, and provide educa on around behavioral health concerns before they escalate, and to provide access to resources when concerns do arise. In addi on to the role that the greater community plays, parents have a sig- nifi cant impact on their children's gaming and gambling habits, and on their screen and technology usage as well. "Parents have such a vital role," said Wagaman. "Parents don't think that they do…but [children] really do listen, and they really do care what their parents and caregivers say and do." Early warning signs, healthy boundaries, and when to seek SUPPORT