Parents can start small, saying “Hey, what’s new? ” to open conversation.  

They should keep the topic coming back over time.  

A first chat might be about medicine for a cold, then later about vaping or alcohol.  

Listening is key.  

When teens speak, parents should not lecture but ask questions.  

They can say “I hear you” instead of “You’re wrong. ”  

If a teen confesses to trying drugs, parents should stay calm.  

Use phrases like “I’m concerned” rather than shaming them.  

Facts help keep the talk realistic.  

Explain that teen brains finish developing around age 25.  

Mention legal limits: alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine are illegal under 21.  

Parents should show the behavior they want.  

If stress shows up, practice walking or talking instead of drinking.  

Set family rules together so teens feel part of the plan.  

A supportive environment makes teens more likely to share future worries.  

Parents should keep learning too, using trusted resources about drug risks.


# Parenting Conversations: Start Small, Stay Consistent

- **Begin with a simple opener**  
  *“Hey, what’s new?”* invites dialogue without pressure.

- **Keep the topic alive**  
  Follow up with varied subjects: a cold remedy today, vaping tomorrow, alcohol next week.

- **Listen first**  
  Let teens speak; avoid lecturing.  
  *“I hear you.”* replaces *“You’re wrong.”*

- **Stay calm if a teen mentions drugs**  
  Use “I’m concerned” instead of shaming.

- **Use facts, not fear**  
  - Teen brains finish developing around age 25.  
  - Alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine are illegal under 21.

- **Model the behavior**  
  If stress surfaces, choose walking or talking over drinking.

- **Co‑create family rules**  
  Involve teens in setting guidelines so they feel part of the plan.

- **Foster a supportive environment**  
  Teens are more likely to share future worries when they trust their parents.

- **Keep learning**  
  Parents should consult trusted resources about drug risks to stay informed.



Helping Parents Talk About Drugs with Teens

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