This resource, titled “Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent’s Guide to Prevention,” is a comprehensive guide designed to help parents navigate the challenges of raising children without the influence of drugs or alcohol. It provides practical information and guidance in plain and accessible language.
Contents:
INTRODUCTION
SECTION 1: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
- Are Drugs and Alcohol Really a Problem for Young Kids?
- Since I am an Adult, is it Okay for Me to Use?
- Will My Children Think I Am Too Strict if I Tell Them Not to Smoke, Drink, and Use Drugs?
- Will My Kids Listen?
- What if My Child Already Smokes, Drinks, or Has Tried Illegal Drugs?
SECTION 2: WHAT SUBSTANCES DO KIDS USE?
- Nicotine
- Alcohol
- Inhalants
- Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
- Prescription Medications
- Opioids, Including Heroin
- Marijuana and Marijuana Concentrates
- Synthetic Cannabinoids (also known as “synthetic marijuana”)
- Stimulants
- Drug Identification Chart
SECTION 3: WHY DO KIDS USE DRUGS OR ALCOHOL?
- Risk Factors
- Protective Factors
- Define Rules and Consequences
- Carve Out Individual Time
- Provide Positive Role Models
- Promote Healthy Activities
- Get Involved … in Their Social Life
- Get Involved … in Fostering a Healthy School
- Get Involved … in the Community
SECTION 4: HOW DO I TALK TO MY CHILD ABOUT DRUGS?
- 4 Suggestions for Talking to Preschoolers
- 5 Tips for Talking to Elementary School Students (6–10 years old)
- 7 Ways to Talk to Middle School Students (11–14 years old)
- 8 Tips for Talking to High School Students (15–18 years old)
- Conversation Starters
- Family Checkup: Positive Parenting Prevents Drug Abuse
- Why You Should Talk With Your Child About Alcohol
- DOs and DON’Ts When Talking with Kids about Drugs or Alcohol
SECTION 5: WHAT IF I THINK MY CHILD IS USING DRUGS?
- How to Proceed
- Substance Use Disorders
- Screening and Treatment
- Recovery
SECTION 6: RESOURCES
- For Youths
- For Parents
FREE PDF DOWNLOAD OF GROWING UP DRUG FREE: A PARENT’S GUIDE TO PREVENTION
