1. Have That Talk
There is never a great time to talk to your children about drugs. Children are facing drug issues at a younger age than ever, so it has become extremely important to address issues surrounding drug use and abuse earlier with children. Typically middle school age, usually around 11 to 13 years old, is a good age to bring up the issue of drug use. However, this talk should be gauged depending upon the maturity level of your child and his exposure to drug-related topics.
2. A Little Honesty Goes a Long Way
When talking to your children about drug use, it is always beneficial to be honest. Talk about your drug experiences, but be a proponent of drug abstinence because of the emotional and physical effects of drug use. This point should be the center of your discussion. Divulging your experimentation or experience with drugs is relative to each parent. Some parents prefer to wait until asked about their drug use, while others freely give the information without provocation. Judge the situation according to how your child responds to the topic.
3. Go Beyond Just the Facts
While giving accurate factual information about drug use is important, children typically respond to a more human and down-to-earth approach. Simply stating what a drug does and how it affects you will be less significant in a child's mind. Instead, tell about your own personal experiences or the experiences of others who have experienced problems with drugs. Speak from experience while still coloring your discussion with truthful information about the dangers of drug use. Speak to your child in their language and know current slang for drugs to help relate.
4. Talk, Don't Lecture
Giving a child a choice is always preferable to an authoritative method of communication. Let the child know that throughout their lives, they will be faced with many choices. Perhaps one of those choices will be to try drugs due to peer pressure or some other factor that makes the drug enticing. Let them know that they have the choice--and the ability--to choose will strengthen your child as a person. Give your child the security to make wise choices and help her feel good about being independent and informed about drug use.
5. Deflate the Peer Pressure Myth
One of the most common reasons cited by children for experimenting with drugs is peer pressure. Instilling choice and autonomy is important, but more importantly a child must learn what it means to be a good friend. Let the child know that friends do not pressure their friends into doing things that are unhealthy or possibly negative. Help them to know the difference between a supportive and positive influence and one that could possibly lead them down a darker road. Self-esteem and positive regard for themselves and others will help your children understand that friends don't allow other friends to do drugs.
