How to talk about drugs use to your kids

Never. Ever. Anywhere. Don’t leave room for interpretation or assumptions. Talk often about the dangers and effects of alcohol and other drug use.

Ask questions and encourage questions from your child. Show your willingness to listen.

Don’t make up what you don’t know; offer to find out. If your children ask if you ever used drugs, let them know what’s important – that you don’t want them using alcohol, tobacco or drugs.

You can use these “teachable moments” as a natural, unforced way to talk about your values and expectations.

If your child makes statements that challenge or shock you, take a deep breath, listen and try to continue having a calm discussion.

Acknowledge how tough these moments can be. Together, come up with things your child can do or say with which he/she is comfortable.