CONVERSATIONS: WHAT TO SAY

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	Conversations: What to Say
		...to your teen
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How well do you really know your teen? Answer these questions and find out.

"If I knew what I know now I would never have smoked marijuana even once! Take time to explain everything to your kids before they are misinformed by a kid who is already using or trying to sell it to them."
— Anthony, 20-years-old

Don't know what to say? These conversation starters can help.

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Having the Conversation ... with the Whole Family

As a parent of a child who is using drugs, you may need to enlist the support of your extended family and close family friends. You may also need to discuss the problem with siblings particularly if the siblings are close in age.

Four million teens say they have an older sibling who uses marijuana. Just over one million teens say they have a younger sibling who uses marijuana. (Source: Partnership Attitude Tracking Study, 2002)

Remember younger brothers and sisters tend to follow in their siblings’ footsteps, so it’s critical to include the entire family in your discussion when you set clear rules about staying drug, and alcohol free.

Key Talking Points:

Drug and alcohol use by teens is not allowed in this family.
There are consequences for bad behavior in this family. Are you clear about them?
If you know that your brother or sister is using alcohol or drugs, we expect you to tell us. This is not “snitching;” rather, it is loving your sibling by not enabling him/her.
We are here to support and protect all our children from danger. That’s what families do for each other.

Sponsored by The National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign