You may need to tell them that it's OK to say no and coach them in ways to handle their peers. Make specific family rules about children not using alcohol or other drugs or smoking cigarettes, with specific punishments for using them. Encourage healthy, creative activities. A reasonable level of hobbies, school events, and other activities may prevent alcohol or drug use out of boredom. Team up with other parents.
Parents can join their own peers in support groups to reinforce the guidance they provide at home.
Know what to do if you suspect a problem. Learn to recognize the telltale signs of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use and get help immediately. More On What You Can Do Prevention must reach children long before they are faced with peer pressure to use drugs. About 18 million children in the United States are under the age of 5. This age group is not too young for prevention programs specially designed for their level of understanding.