Let your kids know they can talk to you about anything, without harsh judgment or lectures. Expose your children to activities like sports, art, music, reading, or drama, so that they develop avid interests. When kids are bored, they are more likely to experiment. Help your child feel a part of his or her school. Go to school functions with your child whenever you can.
Research shows that children who feel bonded with their school are less likely to use substances.
Teach your child to make independent decisions. Allow your kids to make some of their own decisions, so that, when faced with offers of drugs or alcohol, they can resist pressure. Teach your child to cope with frustration and stress. Teach your child to be skeptical of sales pitches . Whether watching commercials or passing a billboard advertising cigarettes or alcohol, help your child discern between the salesperson's interest and his or her own.