It's not always easy talking to your kids about touchy subjects, no matter how old they are. Talking to your kids about topics like sex, drugs and alcohol may be awkward, especially if your basic comments initiate a spate of questions. However, learning to talk about a variety of topics with your children will help them learn to be open and communicative about their questions and concerns and engenders a sense of trust with parents and caregivers that offers them stability and a greater understanding of the world around them.
Step 1
Talk to your kids about the dangers of alcohol and drugs whenever you feel they're old enough to understand. Glenn Williams, author of "Talking Smack: Who's Talking to Your Kids About Drugs and Alcohol, if You're Not," says even preschoolers can benefit from such talks. Kids of all ages are bound to see and hear references to drugs, drug addiction and alcohol and drinking at home, from their friends at school and perhaps even family members. The earlier you discuss the dangers of alcohol and drugs, the more likely they'll be able to make choices to stay drug- and alcohol-free, suggests Children Now. Gear information adapted to their age and level of understanding to give them tools and knowledge to stay away from such activities. Teach your children to say, "No," and practice a variety of ways your children, regardless of age, can feel comfortable doing so.
Step 2
Discuss topics such as sex and relationships with as much honesty as you can, according to Children Now. Yes, it may be embarrassing, but gear your conversations or lessons according to your child's age and ability to understand. For example, teach very young children the proper names for body parts, or answer their questions about why someone's belly is large if they see a pregnant woman. For older yet pre-pubescent children, initiate conversations about liking someone and dating, and field questions about kissing or sleeping together as honestly as you can.
Step 3
Determine the best time to talk to your kids about why taking drugs might be dangerous. For example, if you're going to pick up a prescription medication, you might explain to them the importance of listening to your doctor, according to Menstuff.org, a national men's resource. Or you may pass through the liquor aisle at the grocery store and take the opportunity to discuss the dangers of alcohol consumption. Be ready, willing and able to answer questions your child may have as honestly and simply as possible.
Step 4
Talk about the realities of peer pressure, and how others may use peer pressure to encourage them to use drugs or drink alcohol even if they don't really want to. Name calling, fear of being ridiculed or desire for the acceptance or approval of others are serious issues for children of all ages, suggests The Cool Spot, a government website offering information for teens on alcohol and resisting peer pressure. Suggest ways in which your children may resist peer pressure. Role play with them so they can learn to say no or react to various forms of peer pressure without freezing. Encourage them to feel comfortable and self-confident about themselves so that peer pressure won't damage their self-esteem, beliefs or morals.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't wait until your kids are in their teens before discussing important topics like drug or alcohol use or sex and relationships.
