Perhaps the most important thing parents can do for their children is to be good role models. Children are excellent observers. They know a lot more about you than you may think, so your attitudes towards alcohol and drugs are communicated to them. Teenagers whose parents smoke are twice as likely to start smoking than children of nonsmokers.

Communication is fundamental in having a good relationship with your child. Parents should make it clear to their children that they are open to discussing any issues the child may have. When talking to your child don't lecture, let the facts speak for themselves. Make sure you don't sound like you are accusing your teen, make it clear that drugs and alcohol are something that everyone needs to worry about. Be respectful of what your child is telling you. Once you get the communication lines open don't let them close by responding with sarcasm or ridicule. It is important not to talk down to your child. Listen to your child without interrupting. Ask questions to be sure you understand what your teen is saying. If your child asks you a question you don't know the answer to, say so. Don't try to understand the world your teen is facing today by comparing it to the one you lived in at the same age. Times have changed. Most importantly talk more than once. Building communication takes continual effort. Take the time to talk whenever possible.

The ideal age to talk to your child about alcohol and drugs is between 9 and 11 years. Many people think that this is too young, yet parents of teens say it is more difficult to start discussions during the teenage years. The topic of alcohol and/or drugs should be brought up in brief moments that may naturally become longer discussions. A newspaper or television story or a school discussion can be good reasons for opening a dialogue. Let your child know what your opinions and rules are about alcohol and drugs.

When talking to your children be factual. Young people are better equipped to make proper decisions about any issues, including drinking and using drugs if they have the facts. Trying to scare them about drinking and drugs or presenting either as evil may backfire. That is partly because children have many sources of information and they will soon come to learn that what you told them is not entirely correct, causing them to disregard everything you have said. It is crucial that parents know their children's friends. Encourage your child to be self-reliant and independent. Teach your children to recognize when they should do what their friends are doing and the times when they should stand alone and do what they think is right.

Kids who learn about the risks of drug abuse from their parents or caregivers are less likely to use drugs than kids who do not. How much less likely? Kids are about 36% less likely to smoke marijuana, 50% less likely to use inhalants, 56% less likely to use cocaine, and 65% less likely to use LSD.

Yet sometimes even the best efforts of parents are not enough to prevent alcohol and drug abuse by young people. The best thing a parent can do in that situation is seek professional advice immediately.

Helpful Links:

National Institute of Drug Abuse
Talking With Your Kids
Focus Adolescent Services
Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Parents. The Anti-Drug
Street Drugs
AADAC
National Families in Action
Teen Challenge World Wide Network
Substance Abuse Information Guide for Parents
Family.org: Tobacco, Alcohol and Drug Abuse in Teens
Teen Drug Use: 34 Warning Signs
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services