Kids hear about drugs everywhere, it seems. On TV, radio, the news, in music and movies. Sometimes on the street or on the playground.

Photo of a teenager talking with their momResearch shows that when parents tell their kids they don't want them to do drugs, the kids are less likely to do drugs.

The teen years are the most likely time for someone to start taking drugs. And starting drug use as a teen can lead to drug problems when they grow up.

There are many things you can do to help your children stay away from drugs and make good choices:

  • Talk with your children about drugs. Explain how taking drugs can hurt their health, their friends and family, and their future. Tell them you don't want them to do drugs.
  • Know where your children are and what they're doing. Keeping track of your children helps you protect them. It gives them fewer chances to get into drugs.
  • Teach your children how to refuse drugs. Kids often do drugs just to fit in with the other kids. Help them practice how to say no if someone offers them drugs.

Visit Talk to Your Kids About Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs for more advice.