The number one reason youngsters give for not smoking or using drugs is fear of disappointing their parents. You can be a powerful influence. You can set clear expectations and limits. You can be a supporter who encourages them to pursue their dreams and goals.

Here are 7 ways you can protect your child from alcohol and other drugs:

1. Talk Often With Your Kids

Fact: Kids who learn a lot about the risks of alcohol and other drugs from their parents are up to 50% less likely to use.

* Have regular discussions from an early age, with consistent messages about the risks of alcohol and other drugs.

* Plan what you want to say for the appropriate age.

* Practice how you will respond to tough questions.

* Find teachable moments.

* Teach them how to turn down alcohol and other drugs. * Visit www.timetotalk.org for more helpful tips on how to talk with your kids.

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2. Be Clear About Your Expectations

Fact: You can build trust with your child by having clear and consistent rules.

Tell them it is not okay to drink or do drugs because:

* It‘s against the law.

* You’re still growing and your brain is still developing. Alcohol and drugs can damage your memory, your ability to learn, and can permanently damage your brain.

* Doing drugs and drinking when you’re a teen makes you more likely to become addicted, and can lead to desperate measures including committing crimes.

* You are more likely to make a bad decision when you are drinking or getting high, such as getting in a car, getting in a fight, or having sex.

* Kids who drink are more likely to try other drugs.

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3. Be a Role Model

Fact: Kids imitate adults.

* If you drink, do it in moderation, defined as “the consumption of up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men.”

* Never drink and drive.

* Don’t use illegal drugs.

* Use prescription drugs properly.

* (Never say things like “I need a drink” – the message heard by teens is ‘a drink helps when you have a bad day, stress or problems !)

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4. Be Involved In Your Kid’s Life

Fact: Kids are less likely to use drugs when they have relationships with caring adults.

* Listen to your child. Ask them about things they enjoy doing.

* Be empathetic about problems with friends.

* When your child seems angry or upset, start a conversation with an observation like “you seem sad” or “you seem stressed.”

* Have dinner together at least four times a week.

* Get to know your child’s friends and their parents.

* When your child is going to someone’s house, make sure an adult will be home.

* Encourage your child to call any time they feel uncomfortable.

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5.  Establish Rules and Follow Through

Fact: Parents’ leniency is a bigger factor in teenage drug use than peer pressure.

* Talk to your child about rules at a calm time. Explain the rules, for example what time they must come home, and the consequence for breaking the rule.

* Build a trusting relationship with respect and consistency. Reward good behavior.

* Follow through with consequences. Uphold your rules and rules set by the school and community. If your child is punished for breaking a rule, help them understand why, and discuss what they can do differently in the future.

Here are some responses to common excuses and arguments:

* “You’re the only parent who won’t let me…” (I am sorry you feel that way, but that is the rule in this house.)

* “I didn’t know I was supposed to be home at… “ (You do now.)

* “It’s not mine, I was holding it for a friend… “ (You’re still responsible.)

* “I swear, it was the first time I tried it… “(Bad things can happen on the first time.)

* “That teacher/person in charge is out to get me…“ (That is irrelevant.)

* “Why don’t you trust me? … “ (Your trust bank account is low right now. Here’s what you can do to make a deposit.)

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6. Encourage Your Child to Work Hard in School:

Fact: Kids who perform well in school are less likely to become involved with alcohol and drugs.

* Encourage improvements in grades and in good work.

* Make sure your teen has a quiet place to do homework.

* Coach your child on effective ways to ask teachers for help and advice.

 

7. Support Your Child’s Involvement in Outside Activities:

Fact: Kids who pursue their interests and dreams are less likely to try alcohol and drugs.

* Community Service – Volunteering and getting involved in the community give a sense of purpose, and expand your child’s awareness of the world.

* Sports– Keeping active in sports provides physical, mental and emotional benefits, and keeps kids from getting bored.

* Art, Drama and Music – Creative expression and friends with common interests can help a child develop a talent and increase self-confidence.