Also important is
how you talk to your kids. What has never worked
in any drug education is to tell a person something from
an authoritative viewpoint. As soon as one starts in
with that approach, the child will immediately tune the
person out. A better approach is to ask them questions
and then provide basic, true information.
One can
just ask "What have you heard about drugs that is good?"
At this point is is very important for the
parent to simply listen to the child's response without
interrupting them. Give them your full attention, no
matter what they say, be patient and listen
carefully.
When they have finished telling you
the good things they have heard about drugs, we have
found it is best to just say "thank you" or "I
understand" to the communication they just gave you.
This helps give your child confidence that they can talk
to you and that you are interested in what they have to
say. It's like having communication with your best
friend, only this one happens to be your
child.
Now that they have told you what they
heard that was positive about drugs, it is time to get
them the correct information. The objective is to give
the child correct information so they can make sound
decisions on their own. We have found that when young
people are given the accurate information about drugs
their attitude about them changes and they make their
own decisions not to use them. Their own solid decision
will carry them a long way.
When providing them
with information, ensure that they fully understand it.
Consult their understanding and ask for an example of
what they have just learned. If they ask a question that
you can't answer, it is important that you are honest
with them and don't try and make something up. Use the
opportunity to work with them to find the
answer.
Honestly, patience and good communication
are the key to talking to your kids about drugs. Getting
their questions answered will help ensure they make the
right decision not to use
drugs.
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