What the ISPCC says parents should know
• The availability of drugs/alcohol are facts of life for all young people today
• The best way to prevent your child taking drugs/alcohol is to build your child's self-esteem from a very early age
• A "just say no to drink and drugs" and a "zero tolerance" approach does not work with young people
• Avoid using scare tactics when discussing drugs with your children. Balanced information and discussion will have better results
• Remember your job as a parent is to empower your children to make good and informed choices
• Be open to discussing drugs and alcohol with them at an early age.Don't treat drugs education as a once-off event
If you suspect your child is taking drugs/alchohol
• Do not panic, stay clam and keep the lines of communication open between you and your child
• Check out your own values and beliefs around alcohol and drug usage
• Know your facts so you can have a balanced discussion
• Ask your child to talk about their views and listen to what they have to say
• Do not discuss drug use with your child if you think they are under the influence of a drug
• Seek out support for you and your child if you are worried or concerned