All parents worry about their children. Drugs seem to be an unfortunate fact of life and you want to keep your children from harm. Maybe you feel that you don’t know much about drugs, that you’re not sure what to say about them to your kids and that they might not want to listen.
You might be doing better than you realise. Your kids probably do care what you think even if they don’t show it. But what matters even more is them being able to tell you what they think and feel too.
For more information you can download Drugs: what every parent should know. This guide which will help you feel more confident when speaking to your kids. When dealing with drugs it helps to Talk Some and Listen More.
What is the best way to talk to my kids about drugs?
You don't have to be an expert to talk to your kids about drugs. And there's no harm in admitting that you know less than they do.
Try showing an interest in the subject to get an open discussion going.
Get involved
If the opportunity comes along, helping your kids with research for a drugs project at school is a great way for both of you to learn the facts and to discuss them together.
It's also a chance to involve younger or older members of the family in the discussion.
Stick To The Facts
Plain facts speak for themselves and making too much of the dangers can make drugs seem more glamorous. All drugs are potentially harmful and kids need to be aware of this, so discussing the facts can help dispel some of the myths and misunderstandings.
Why do young people take drugs?
Although many kids are likely to be offered drugs, most of them still refuse.
Curiosity
Of course some will choose to ignore the warnings. They may do this out of simple curiosity or as part of a desire to take risks.
Frustration
Sometimes, the decision to experiment with drugs might stem from frustration over personal or family problems.
Environment
Young people's experience of drugs can vary a lot depending on where they live. In some urban areas, drug misuse is common; but drugs are also available in rural areas.