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 Ten Ways to Keep Your Kid Off Drugs

Here are ten things you can do as a parent to increase the chances of raising a teenager who just says “no” to drugs and alcohol. Doing these things will raise your child’s self esteem and they will be more likely to make the right choices.First off, be a good listener. Make sure your child feels comfortable talking about things with you. Sometimes it is hard for a teenager or preteen to come to their parents for advice or problems, but you can change that. Ask questions and show that you are interested in what is going on in your child’s life. You may find it obvious that you care, but sometimes a preteen or teen may feel like you do not and may need you to remind him.

Second, be available to discuss sensitive subjects. Children need to know they can rely on you for information without you getting all angry with them right away. Prepare yourself for the worst. This way you will be prepared for whatever it is that comes up.Also, be a good role model. Your own habits and attitudes about drugs, alcohol, and tobacco is a big factor in what your child will think of it.

Fourth, be straight on tough topics. Give clear, specific messages when talking about drugs of any kind, so your child knows what you mean. Do not beat around the bush. be up front and honest. It will only be better in the long run anyway.

Also, be aware of what is on television and in music that your teen is being exposed to. These things really have an impact on your child’s way of life. If a rapper is rapping about drugs then your child will see that high profile people are doing these things and they may get all sorts of strange ideas in their heads.

Be helpful. Teach your child to manage stress in good ways such as doing an activity that calms him down.Being positive is also great. Emphasize what your child does right rather than wrong. Rather than saying “You were late!”, you can say, “You were late but I’m glad you called to let me know.” These types of things will show your child that they can get more attention for what they do good rather than what they do bad.

By Shannon Quinn,