10 Tips for Recovering Addicts to Help Their Children

1. Role model healthy behavior.
2. Allow children to have their feelings.
3. Be honest about your addiction.
4. Educate children about the disease. Let them know their increased vulnerability to addiction and that it's not their fault.
5. Find support groups for your children (Alateen, Alatot, etc.).
6. Take responsibility for hurting your family and make amends.
7. Provide structure, consistency and accountability.
8. Work on yourself, e.g. 12-step meetings, sponsor, spirituality, counseling, honesty, trust, etc.
9. Communicate openly and directly.
10. Express love often.