Ways to Prevent Drug Abuse in Children of Varying Ages

Parents wish to protect their children from all the dangerous situations in the world. One prevalent issue that today's parents may worry about is the use of drugs; illegal or legal. Some parents believe that the best route to take to do this is to shield their child from exposure to knowledge about these drugs. However, this is found to be ineffective. Parents should work to educate themselves about drugs. By doing so, they can clear misconceptions that their child may have and prepare them to deal with situation that they will sometime encounter. For different age groups, different approaches should be taken.
Pre-School to age 7: Children of this age have probably been exposed to medicines such as antibiotics and have seen advertisements for other drugs. Parents should calmly introduce the benefits of drugs, like antibiotics, and the reasons behind them. Reasons that such drugs are appropriate at the time should be explained. Remember, also, that your child watches your behaviors very closely at this age. You should model ideal behavior for your child. When your child takes notice of smoking advertisements and things of that nature, you should explain the harm the drugs have on your body and the possible dangers. Tell your child how the drugs can make you feel and the dangers of overdose and other harmful effects. The purpose is not to scare, but to educate and present facts. As a parent, you should do your research.
Age 8-12: At this age, it is likely that your child has formed his or her own opinion about drugs. You should ask your child how they feel and respond in a non-judgemental way to clear any misconceptions. Ask you child questions to make them really think. By initiating this conversation properly, you will make your child feel that it is okay to have these discussions. At this age, most children will still be open and honest about drugs. As your child become more exposed to the media at this age, you should be sure to explain the effects and dangers of drugs. For instance, there may be a news story on an athlete using steroids. Use this story to explain the harmful effects they will have on a person's health.
Age 13-17: Many children this age will still express their feelings about drugs. However, they probably know someone or have a friend who does drugs of some sort. Talk to your child about how this makes them feel. At this age, you should also introduce the legal issues that come with drug use. Express to your child the dangers of driving under the influence. Talk about the possibility of death or serious injury that is associated with drugs. This is also the time to establish clear ground rules and a plan to help your child deal with risky situations. Make your parental expectations clear.

Source:
http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/talk_about_drugs.html#

Caitlin Hughes