Resources for Parents

Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition LogoTalk with Your Kids about Drugs

Today is the best day to start a habit of just talking with your kids. Experts agree that simply getting into the habit of talking with your children about daily life is a great way to lay the foundation for important conversations, including drug use.

Kids are curious people. They want to know about the world around them. At some point, they will learn about drugs—prescription and others. Your teenagers crave a real conversation WITH you to explore ideas and gain understanding. If you don’t have an answer, it’s a great opportunity to research it together. We have curated a collection of resources to help you with accurate, factual drug information, as well as some overall communication strategies.

Lead-ins to initiate a discussion with your teenager:

  • “I care about you, and you’re a valued team member. I know you’ve been drinking on the weekends. This will cost you your spot on the team...” 
  • “Your health and well-being are very important to me. I know you’ve been using drugs. Let’s talk about this. I need you to be honest with me...” 
  • “Prescription drugs are dangerous and addictive. I know you’re abusing them. We need to have an honest conversation...”

Tips to Help Guide Your Teen Toward a Healthy, Drug-Free Life

Prevention starts with you. Take an active role in preventing alcohol and other drug use before it starts.

  • Make sure your teen knows your rules and the consequences for breaking them.
  • Let your teen in on all the things you find wonderful about him.
  • Show interest and discuss your teen’s daily ups and downs.
  • Tell your teen about the negative effect alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs have on physical appearance.
  • Don’t just leave your teen’s anti-drug education up to her school.

Adolescent Alcohol & Drug Use

Alcohol is the most used substance among teens and young adults, posing substantial health and safety risks. Learn how to address underage drinking.

Two-thirds of teens who misused pain relievers in the past year say they got them from family and friends. Learn how to properly secure and dispose of your medications.

Drugs by Another Name

“Molly” may be a friend’s name, but it may not. “Special K” is a breakfast cereal, but why would your kids be chatting about it? Have they actually been riding horses lately? If not, “horse” may not be what you think. Names for illicit drugs are ever-changing, so if something seems strange in your child’s communication, check it out in the Parent's Guide to Decoding Modern Drug Slang. Ask questions of your child and others and see if your suspicions are warranted. Communication is key in preventing alcohol and other drug abuse.

It's OK to Ask Kids about Their Drug Use brochure (PDF)

Treatment Options

For more information on treatment options for teens and adolescents, view the Navigating Treatment page and/or the Kenosha County Behavioral Health Community Resources Directory.

Additional Resources