Create a Family Environment
- Establish open, effective communication with your child. This will instill trust, responsibility and accountability.
- Send a clear message to your child by setting a good example.
Discuss Your Expectations
- Have a conversation about your child's behavior as it relates to their use of substances.
Explain the Short-Term & Long-Term Dangers
Discuss the consequences of substance use including health risks and legal consequences.
Promote Open Communication
- Let your child know that you want them to be safe at all times.
- This may require:
- Communicating with other parents
- Monitoring your child's whereabouts
- Monitoring your child's phone use
- Supervising internet accounts
- Tracking credit card charges
Observing Changes
Watch to see if your child's friends, interests, appearance or health changes.
If you notice a marked change in your child, talk with your child and, if necessary, seek help from listed resources.
