Talk To Your Kids

hero-image

Talk With Your Kids

Luckily… You Mastered Awkward in High School

Talking with your kids about drugs can be awkward.

If you’re worried about your child’s alcohol or drug use, consider writing a letter. Yes, the good, old-fashioned pen-and-paper kind. It may seem “retro”, but in today’s world of emailing and texting, a written letter can provide an opportunity to express your thoughts and feelings you might find hard to share in person. Plus, it shows an extra level of effort, time, and respect.

Here’s the Lowdown:

As a parent, talking with your kids is a powerful tool to connect with — and protect — your kids. But figuring out what to say can be a challenge.

If you start to see your child changing friends, slipping in their grades, or losing interest in stuff they loved, it’s time for a chat – these could be signs of drug use. But don’t wait for this to happen to talk.

Here are some other tips to get the conversation going:

Start the Conversation

It’s important to talk with your kids and start the conversation early. Don’t try to squeeze it in on the way to school or when you only have a few minutes. Find time to have these conversations that works for both of you.

Listen

Be a good listener. Get their opinion. Don’t talk over or down to them. When you allow them to be heard, they’re more likely to listen when you speak.

Set Clear Rules

We know it’s a lot easier to just assume your kids know your expectations, but that just doesn’t work. As hard as it may be to set rules, keep in mind that your kids actually want them (no matter how loud they protest).The bottom line is your kids will be less likely to use tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs if you set rules and consequences for breaking those rules.

Make your rules clear.

You might even want to write them down and go over them with your kids.

Stick to your rules and enforce them.

Role Play

Work with your kid to find tools to deal with peer pressure. Many kids don’t realize saying no can be as simple as saying, “If I get caught, I won’t be able to do sports, theater, dance, etc.” Also, encourage your kid to use you as an excuse. For example, “My parents would ground me for the summer.”

Focus on the Positive

Encourage your kid to make choices that help them achieve their goals.

Talk About Friends

Know who their friends are, what they’re like and how they influence the youth in your life.

Build Confidence

Let your kid in on all the things you find wonderful about them. Positive reinforcement can go a long way.

Keep Your Relationship Strong

Let your kids know you’re on their side. You want them to make the best decisions for themselves.
Show interest in and discuss your kid’s daily ups and downs. You’ll earn their trust, learn how to talk to each other, and won’t take your kid by surprise when you voice a strong point of view about drugs.

Still have questions? Get more information and learn the action steps you can take.