Talking to Kids About Alcohol & Other Drugs

With a new school year comes new risks that expose kids to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. Children tend to be more accepting of alcohol and marijuana use as they transition from elementary to middle school and middle to high school.

Research suggests that one of the most important factors in healthy child development is a strong, open relationship with a parent. This is a perfect time to talk to your children about alcohol and other drugs before they are exposed to them – as early as 9 years old – and keep the conversation going throughout the school year.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers these and other helpful tips on their website at samhas.gov:

Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse - Over 80% of young people ages 10-18 ay their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. Send a clear and strong message that you disapprove of underage drinking and use and misuse of other drugs. 

Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success – Young people are more likely to listen when they know you’re on their side. Reinforce why you don’t want your child to drink or use other drugs – because you want them to be happy and safe. The conversation will go a lot better if you’re open and show concern.

Show you’re a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs – You want your child to make informed decisions about alcohol and other drugs with reliable information about its dangers. You don’t want your child to learn from unreliable sources. Establish yourself as a trustworthy source of information.

Show you’re paying attention and you’ll discourage risky behaviors – Show you’re aware of what your child is up to. Young people are more likely to drink or use other drugs if they think no one will notice. Do this subtly, without prying.

Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use – Even if you don’t think you child wants to drink or try other drugs, peer pressure is a powerful thing. Having a plan to avoid alcohol and drug use can help children make better choices. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision like this, such as texting a code to a family member or practicing how they will say “no thanks.”