Parent

SET CLEAR FAMILY RULES

• Establish clear rules and expectations for non-use and make sure those rules are communicated consistently.

• The message must be CLEAR:

• THIS: "I expect you will not use drugs or alcohol."

• NOT THIS: "Don't get in trouble tonight."

 GIVE LOTS OF POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

• Make sure your teen knows all of the things you find wonderful about them. They need to hear a lot of positive comments about their life and who they are as an individual — and not just when they get an "A" or make the basketball team. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in preventing drug use among teens.

 GET INVOLVED! STAY INFORMED! SHOW INTEREST; KNOW WHERE THEY ARE, AND WHO THEY ARE WITH.

• Show interest — and discuss — your child's daily ups and downs. You'll earn your child's trust, learn how to talk to each other, and won't take your child by surprise when you voice a strong point of view about drugs.

• Also, always know where your kids are, who they are with and what they are doing. If you are not with your kids, stay in contact with them. Research shows that kids who are not regularly monitored by their parents are four times more likely to use drugs.

• Know who your children's friends are and get to know their parents as well. Discuss your no drug or alcohol rules with their parents and enlist their support.

TALK TO YOUR TEEN ABOUT THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS.

•  Learn the risks yourself and talk to your teen about them frequently. You can use current events to start a conversation. Teens are extremely concerned with their physical appearance so don't be afraid to emphasize these effects. For instances, tell them about a time you saw a friend or acquaintance get sick from alcohol — reinforce how completely disgusting it was.

MAKE SURE YOUR CHILDREN'S SOCIAL ENVIRONMENTS ARE ALCOHOL-FREE.

• Ensure that alcohol is not available to your child at home or from others when your child is not under your supervision. Check in with parents who are hosting a party that your child will be attending to ensure that no drugs or alcohol will be available.