Learn the facts, warning signs and risk factors. Knowing the facts helps parents discuss the risks of alcohol and other drugs and lets them give their children current and correct information. Well-informed parents are also better prepared to recognize signs of alcohol or drug use in their children and step in quickly to provide assistance. Establish clear rights, rules and limits within the family. Provide children with positive examples.
Children learn by observing and imitating the behavior of others.
And children in their pre-teens learn most from their parents. As positive role models, parents can help reduce the risks of their children using alcohol and other drugs. Build strong bonds with family and school. Strong relationships between family and school help children avoid alcohol and other drugs. Parents play a crucial role in reducing their children's risk when they become actively involved in their children's lives and take steps to strengthen bonds between family and school.