Parents are the first and often the most influential people in a child's life, especially when it comes to tough conversations about topics like drug use. With Red Ribbon Week around the corner, an annual drug prevention awareness campaign, it’s an opportune time to sit your children down and have this crucial discussion. 

Here are some tips to help you navigate this conversation:

1. Start Early and Often

It might seem premature to talk to elementary-aged kids about drugs, but it's never too early to lay a foundation. Keeping the conversation age-appropriate is key. For younger kids, you might say, "Drugs can make people sick and they should only be taken if a doctor says it's okay."

2. Choose the Right Time and Place

Select a quiet, relaxed setting without distractions. This might be after dinner, during a car ride, or on a weekend morning. The important thing is to ensure your child feels safe and comfortable.

3. Be Open and Honest

Let your child know why you're discussing this topic. Share your concerns and fears without exaggerating or trying to scare them. Honesty will help in building trust.

4. Ask Open-ended Questions

Rather than lecturing, engage your child in a two-way conversation. Ask questions like, "What have you heard about drugs?" or "Why do you think some people choose to take drugs?"


5. Listen Actively

It's important to listen without interrupting. This shows your child that you value their opinions and feelings. Their answers can also provide insight into their knowledge, misconceptions, and peer pressures.

6. Discuss the Consequences

Make sure to cover both the physical effects (like addiction or health complications) and the social consequences (like loss of friends or getting into trouble).

7. Highlight the Positive

While it's essential to address the dangers, also emphasizes the benefits of staying drug-free, such as clearer thinking, better health, and achieving personal goals.

8. Utilize Real-Life Situations
Red Ribbon Week offers numerous stories, testimonials, and events that shed light on the consequences of drug use. Share these real-life situations as they can be powerful teaching tools.

9. Know Your Facts
Children, especially teens, might ask difficult questions. Be prepared by brushing up on the latest facts and statistics about drugs. If you don't know the answer, be honest and research together.

10. Create a Safe Environment
Assure your child that they can always come to you with questions or concerns, or if they find themselves in a difficult situation. Knowing they have your support without immediate judgment can make all the difference.

11. Be a Role Model
Children often imitate adult behaviors. Lead by example by maintaining a drug-free lifestyle, managing stress healthily, and promoting positive habits.

12. Stay Involved
Be present in your child's life. Know their friends, stay updated with school events, and attend programs like those during Red Ribbon Week.


Talking to your kids about drug prevention is not a one-time event but an ongoing dialogue. Red Ribbon Week serves as a helpful platform to kickstart or continue these discussions. By keeping lines of communication open and building a foundation of trust and understanding, you can help safeguard your child against the dangers of drug use. Remember, it's not just about telling them "no," but equipping them with the knowledge and tools to make wise decisions on their own.