Talking to Your Kids

The more comfortable we feel communicating with each other and discussing drug related issues as a society, the better we will become at recognizing and addressing drug related problems. Talking about little things makes talking about big things easier (Ontario Drug Awareness Partnership 2007).

Here are some tips for you and your teen:

1. Start talking in the preteen years about drugs.
2. Educate yourself.
3. Agree on some guidelines.
4. Avoid scare tactics.
5. Practice what you preach, be a good role model.
6. Help your child feel good about him or herself.
7. Spend time together.
8. Let them know that it is natural to make mistakes.

Kids need support and guidance when it comes to understanding drugs. Here are two links that provide parents with resources and information on drugs and drug misuse:

• Parent Action on Drugs is a registered charity that offers a wide range of programs and services aimed at prevention, education and support.
• The BC Guidebook for Parents of Young Teens is designed to help you get the information that you need to talk to your children BC Council for Families Bookstore.