Talking to Kids About Drugs

It's important to talk to your children about alcohol and drugs early on. Kids may feel pressure to try drugs even as young as fourth grade. School programs aren't enough, so parents need to get involved. However, many parents don't know how to discuss this subject with their kids. Open communication is key in helping your child avoid drug use. By talking openly and really listening, you show your children that they matter to you.

What should you say?

• Let them know you love them and want them to be healthy and happy.
• Make it clear that you don't approve of alcohol or illegal drug use.
• Explain the harm caused by drug use, including physical, emotional, and educational harm.
• Talk about the legal consequences of drug use, such as prison time or losing a job, driver's license, or college loan.
• Discuss positive alternatives to drug use, like sports, reading, movies, bike rides, or camping, and explore these activities together. Include your child's friends.

How should you say it?

• Speak calmly and openly without exaggerating. Stick to the facts.
• Talk face-to-face and actively listen to your child's fears and concerns. Don't interrupt or preach.
• Use "teachable moments" from TV news, dramas, books, or newspapers instead of giving a formal lecture.
• Keep the conversation going rather than just giving a one-time speech.
• Set a good example by not using illegal drugs yourself.
• Be creative! Role-play situations where your child might feel pressured to use drugs and discuss different ways to handle it. Share ideas with other parents.

How can you tell if a child is using drugs?

Recognizing drug use can help prevent further abuse. Look for these possible signs:

• Changes in mood – irritability, secrecy, withdrawal, sensitivity, anger, euphoria
• Less responsible behavior – being late or dishonest
• Changes in friends, interests, or unexplained money
• Physical signs – trouble concentrating, loss of coordination, weight loss, unhealthy appearance

Why do kids use drugs?

Kids may use drugs for reasons like:

• Peer pressure
• Escaping pain in their lives
• Fitting in
• Boredom
• Fun
• Curiosity
• Risk-taking

Take action!

• Learn the facts about alcohol and drug use to maintain credibility with your child.
• Set clear rules against drug use in your family and enforce them consistently.
• Improve your parenting skills through seminars, networking, reading, counseling, and support groups. Work with other parents to set community standards.
• Volunteer at schools, youth centers, or community activities.

For more information

Check out state and local government agencies for drug use prevention, intervention, and treatment. Look for private drug use treatment services in the phone book's Yellow Pages.

National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information (NCADI)

P.O. Box 2345 Rockville, MD 20847-2345 800-729-6686 301-468-2600 Fax: 301-468-6433