Make family rules. Parents can 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 use out of boredom. Team up with other parents.
Parents can join their peers in support groups to reinforce the guidance they provide at home.
Know what to do if you suspect a problem. Parents can learn to recognize the telltale signs of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use and get help immediately. Pressure to use alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana usually begins during the elementary years. The same survey reported that children in the fourth, fifth, and sixth grades say they would be most likely to begin using beer, wine, or liquor to fit in with other youths and to feel older. Before It Starts , grades five through nine are thought to be the most crucial time period for prevention programs.