Be the Excuse Your Child Needs
In a recent study, teens gave parents a "C-" in preventing kids from using drugs. These kids often say their parents don't talk to them about drugs even though their parents report they do. Don't leave your kids guessing. Tell them very clearly that you don't want them using substances - no tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, ecstasy or inhalants. Setting a firm rule of no drug use will help your child navigate peer and other pressure to use drugs. Here are some examples of rules that parenting experts recommend (taken from "Keeping Your Kids Drug Free: A How To Guide for Parents and Caregivers"):
"If you're at a party and you see that drugs or alcohol are being used, the rule is to leave that party. Call me and I'll come get you."
"I've been thinking lately that I've never actually told you this: I don't want you using alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs."
"I love you and I want the best for you, so I don't want you using marijuana or any other drugs."
"The rule in the house is that no body uses drugs."
"You know, drugs are not games. I don't want you doing them, not now, not ever."
Part of what you can do as a parent is set limits. Let your kids know that you do not want them in a risky situation. Parents need to help teens recognize what might be a risky situation and give them guidance and assistance in making healthy choices.
"I don't want you riding in a car with a driver who's been using drugs or who's been drinking."
"Honey, I love you, but you've got to know I'm your parent, not one of your friends. As your parent, I will not put up with you being in a place where drugs are used."
"it's my job as a parent to keep you safe, so I'm going to ask you questions about who you're with and what you're doing."
Sometimes kids need the language to help them stay away from risky situations. Here are some lines you can provide your child. In addition, this is also an opportunity to get your kids to think for themselves. Ask them what they would do in a risky situation. Role play situations, then you can give your child examples from one of the ones listed below of what he can tell someone who uses drugs.
"I like you, but I don't like drugs."
"It makes me uncomfortable to be around drugs."
My dad (or mom, grandmother, etc.) would kill me if they knew I was around drugs."
"I'd get kicked off the team if I was caught around drugs."
Here's what your child can tell someone who offers them drugs:
"No thanks. It's not for me."
"You're kidding right? Why would I do something so dumb?"
"No way man. Taking drugs is stupid."
"No way man. Taking drugs is not for me."
"Can't do it. Gotta get home."
"I tried drinking and I threw up."
"That's illegal. I don't want to get into big trouble."
"I have a big game tomorrow."
"My parents would kill me."
"I could get kicked off the team if anyone found out."