When And How To Talk To Kids About Drugs?
Talking about drugs to kids is a very important part of parental responsibility. It is important for the parents to be clear about every aspect of this topic before discussing it with their child as they may have to answer a number of questions. It is always better if the kids get to know about these things from their parents rather than their peer groups.
When to talk to kids about drugs:
The primary concern among every parent is that they are not sure whether it’s the right time to talk regarding such issues. It is one of the most important conversations that parents need to have with their children. The best time to start such conversation is when the child is in their pre-school or elementary school years. Children belonging to this age group are generally much more receptive than their older counterparts. They do not take drugs yet; as a result the problem can be avoided before it makes an appearance. Children usually take the parents word for it thereby creating a sense of trust.
Parents may also start such conversations with school aged children. The way of communicating with them will be a little different than that of pre-school kids.
How to talk to kids about drugs:
This is a sensitive issue. Hence parents should be careful regarding the ways in which they communicate with their children. The pattern of communication differs according to the age group the parents are addressing.
Ages 4-7:
Children belonging to this age group normally don’t have much idea regarding drugs. The best way to talk to such children is to show them instances of the use of tobacco, alcohol or other drugs [in television or books] and telling them how harmful they are to the body. The children need to be told how exactly the drugs risk one’s life and what are the long term damages associated with it. Make the child realize that they should be responsible for their good health.
Ages 8-12:
These are the school going kids for whom the school is an important part of their world. Kids of this age are usually open to talking about such sensitive issues. Parents can start by asking them what they think about this topic and correcting any myths that they may harbor. Conversations with such kids may not end up in a discussion but it will make the kids think about what they just heard. As kids grow older, they are less likely to open up; hence, parents should opt for a non-judgmental line of communication.
Ages 13-18:
In case of adolescents parents should have a direct discussion on the more critical aspects of drug abuse like the legal issues. Children of this age are more influenced by their peer group. Hence, it is important for the parent to carefully approach the subject without demeaning their friends. The conversation should be filled with solid facts and the negative consequences of drugs on sports, health, appearance and life. They should be made to realize the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs. Parents should also encourage a healthy discussion as most of the questions can be answered that way.
The bottom-line is that parents should not avoid this task just because they are uncomfortable or because they think that they will plant ideas in their child’s mind. An honest discussion is the only way to bust the myths regarding this issue and guide the child towards a better future.
