Prevention

Who has the most influence on a child? A parent.

Parents have more influence over their children than friends, music, the Internet, and celebrities.

Kids who learn a lot about the risks of drugs, alcohol and tobacco from their parents are up to 50% less likely to use than those who do not.

That’s why it is so important that parents build a strong relationship with their children and talk to them about substance abuse -- the earlier the better.

Talking about drugs isn’t easy, but family members can't ignore this subject because kids are bombarded with mixed messages about drugs every single day.



Help your children stay safe and make healthy choices by:

  • Talking and listening regularly. Share every day what happened to you and ask what happened to them.

  • Being directly involved in your child’s everyday world. Support your children’s activities by attending special events, like recitals and games. Ask your son or daughter what is wrong when he or she seems upset and let your child know you are there to help.

  • Making it clear that you do not want him or her drinking, using drugs or smoking. Ask your children what they know, how they feel, and what they think about using drugs.

  • Telling your child how you feel about drugs and what you expect from him or her. Be warm, but firm. For example, you might say:

    • "I'm not trying to ruin your fun. I love you and I want you to stay healthy. The best way to do that is to stay completely away from drugs and alcohol. I need you to promise that you will."

    "I realize there's a lot of temptation out there. I also know you're a really smart, strong person. That's why I expect you to stay clean — no matter what your friends are doing. Agreed?"

    (Information courtesy of Partnership For a Drug-Free America and National Crime Prevention Council.)


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