So you have a key role to play in preventing your kids from using drugs and alcohol. Staying connected with your teen, even when it seems nothing is more important than their friends, is very important.  Parents have more influence over their child than their friends, music, TV, the Internet and celebrities.

Kids who learn a lot about the risks of drugs and alcohol from their parents are up to 50% less likely to use than those who do not.

Help your teen stay safe and make healthy choices by:

• Talking with and listening to your teen regularly. Communicate, communicate, communicate.
• Being directly involved in your child’s everyday world. Show interest in their activities.
• Making it clear that you do not want him or her drinking or using drugs. Explain why. Talk about the risks.
• Setting limits and consequences and implement consistently.

What are some of the signs that your child might be using substances?  Check out: http://parent.drugfree.org/HowToSpotUse/Articles/Is_Your_Teen_Using.aspx