Talking to Kids and Teens About Drugs and Alcohol Directory
When you talk to kids or teens about drugs and alcohol, don’t expect it to be a one-time conversation. These topics should be brought up often so that your kids are prepared to handle situations at school, parties, and elsewhere. Use current events or incidents to bring up drugs and alcohol, and set expectations for your kids. Let them know what you want them to do and why it is important. It's important to discuss physical and emotional consequences of using drugs or alcohol as well. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how to talk to your kids about drugs and alcohol, what to say and when, and much more.
Medical Reference
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Teen Drug Abuse: Role-Playing for Teens and Parents
Teens are under pressure to abuse drugs or engage in other risky behaviors. Use these scenarios from WebMD -- even act them out -- to practice saying 'no.'
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Teen Drug Abuse: Teachable Moments
Some parents mistakenly think that a single conversation with their teenager about the risks of drug use is enough. But an ongoing conversation is far more effective. WebMD offers tips on answering your teen's questions honestly and keeping the dialogue open.
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Tips for Talking to Your Kids About Cigarette Smoking
WebMD offers tips for talking to your kids about the dangers of cigarette smoking.
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Teens and Alcohol
WebMD answers basic questions about teens and alcohol use.
Features
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Your Child and Alcohol
Learn the dos and don’ts of teaching your young children and teens about alcohol.
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Developing Trust in Teens
A written contract may help parents with developing trust in teens. Here's how to begin negotiations.
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Talking to Teens About Drugs
Talking to Teens About Drugs
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How to Talk to Your Teen
A guidance counselor's cheat sheet for healthy communication.
Video
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The Truth About Alcohol
Could alcoholic beverages really have health benefits? We talk to experts to find out how much a drink can help or hurt.
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Hiding Drugs in Plain Sight
Ever wonder how your child might hide his or her drug use from you? Get the inside scoop from this teenage drug abuser.
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Cough Medicine Abuse in Teens
There's a growing epidemic of teen abuse of over-the-counter cough medicine. It's dangerous, even deadly. Could your teen be in danger?