The foundation for all healthy habits, from eating nutritious foods to using proper hygiene to dressing appropriately for the weather, begins in the preschool years. While drug use by for children this age may not be a concern, even young children hear about drugs. Unless adults take the time to help children sort through the messages they receive, what they think they understand about drugs may be far from reality.
Preschoolers regard the adults in their life as all-powerful.
Perhaps at no other time in their lives is your approval as highly prized or your teachings as well received as during these early years of unconditional devotion. Remember that both as you talk with your children and as you consider what behaviors you model about the use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. Ask children what they think about a TV program or story-line. Discuss how violence and bad decisions can hurt people. Realize that when you use tobacco, alcohol and other drugs, you are sending a message endorsing your children's use of these substances.