Success Stories Child rearing is one of the most important tasks anyone ever performs, and the one for which there is the least preparation. Today, the widespread use of alcohol and other drugs subjects our children, families, and communities to pressures unheard of 30 or 40 years ago. Frankly, many of us need help to deal with this frightening threat to our children's health and well-being. Fortunately, we also know more about what works to prevent drug use by our young people. As parents, we can build on that progress in our own families by having strong, loving relationships with our children, by teaching standards of right and wrong, by setting and enforcing rules for behavior, by knowing the facts about alcohol and other drugs, and by really listening to our children.
Every family has expectations of behavior that are determined by principles and standards.
Very often, these values help children decide not to use alcohol or other drugs. Social, family, and religious values give young people reasons to say no and help them stick to their decisions. You probably know these things, and probably already practice them in your home. Still, it never hurts to look at the things we do as parents. Teach your child how each decision builds on previous decisions as one's character is formed, and how a good decision makes the next decision easier.