How can I prevent my child from becoming involved with drugs?

There is no sure way to prevent your child using drugs but you can decrease the chances of it happening if you:

• Maintain good communication with your child; make sure they know they can talk to you if they have any concerns or issues.
• Be interested in their activities and know who their friends are. Help with homework and convey them to and from sports and other activities.
• Have open discussions with your child from a young age about drug use: what they would do if offered drugs? Explore examples, positives and negatives of use.
• Encourage them not to drink or smoke. The longer you can delay this the less likely they are to use illegal drugs.
• Make sure your own use of alcohol or other drugs is responsible. The best way to influence their behaviour is by example.
• Inform yourself about drugs.
• Praise and encourage healthy behaviour.
• Have positive expectations for your children.
• Set clear boundaries in your home.