-
Step 1
Pay attention to your attitude when approaching. As parents, we often like to set the presence of the authoritarian figure. Being the authoritarian is good in most cases, but not when you are talking to your kids about drugs. When talking to your kids about drugs, it is recommended that you approach your kids in a calm, informative and all ears manner. Going to your kids with a calm attitude, informative mindset and the willingness to listen to your kid you are more likely to have a productive conversation with your kids about drugs than if you were to use the authoritarian approach.
-
Step 2
Explain the risks of doing drugs. Sometimes, when you tell a child that something will kill them, they will not pursue it. However, we all know that that approach doesn't work; therefore you need a more creative approach. Tell your kids about the risks (besides the possibility of death) of doing drugs and spell it out for them. Some of the risks that you might explain to your kids include it can cause you to be unhealthy and that it's illegal and they might go to jail. You may even try to relate to a relative or a friend that may be consumed by drugs.
-
Step 3
Make them aware of the benefits of being drug-free. Telling your kids that they would be really cool if they didn't do drugs would make their day. However, again this tactic only works with most kids not all kids. Telling your kids that they would live a better life, may keep a girlfriend longer, their family members won't suffer and many others are all recommended ways to teach the benefits of being drug-free to your child.
Comments
DLessem said
on 10/15/2008 Demonizing drugs only will make your kids distrust you. If you want to keep your kids safe, distinguish between the different drugs. Smoking pot will not kill your kids. Drinking might. If you want drug-free kids, don't be a hypocrite. Keep your house alcohol-free, or admit that some drugs are okay sometimes.