Last Updated on December 10, 2019 by Valarie Ward

Guess what parents! Summer is almost over.

That’s right. It’s hard to believe, isn’t it? It seems like only yesterday end of year graduations were being held. Well, maybe not so much if you have a rambunctious kiddo that’s kept your summer eventful! You may be more than ready for school to get back in session. Regardless, it is back to school season which means shopping lists, the struggle of earlier bedtimes, and talking about drugs. Wait. What? Yes, you read that right. Back to school is the perfect opportunity start the talk, but when is it time?

Facing the Daunting Discussion

One of the challenges of parenting is bridging those conversations you’d rather not have. Let’s be honest; talking about drugs, alcohol, and sex with your child doesn’t top your list of favorites. It’s uncomfortable, partially because you were their age once and you remember it. “The talk” is often daunting because it feels somewhat like the pot calling the kettle black if you understand the reference. But it’s okay. You made mistakes, and they will too. The important thing is an open dialogue.

Preschool and Kindergarten

Maybe you’re sending your kiddo to school for the very first time. They look so grown up picking out their backpack from the backpackingmall and putting on their shoes, but they’re so little. The backpack is almost half their size; there’s room to grow into those shoes and school uniforms. Isn’t it too early to talk about a dark topic like drugs? Believe it or not, no. And you’ve already laid the groundwork.

Chances are your mini-me has had a cold, run a fever, or battled an upset tummy. What did you do? You introduced them to over-the-counter medicine or chose a non-drug alternative. Kids are observant, and whether you realize it or not, they watched what you did. You read labels, you measured, you timed, and you may even have consulted their doctor. Build on these teachable moments by talking about why you take these actions. You’ll have plenty of opportunity during their first year of school because that’s when their immune systems adjust. Prescription antibiotics and OTC fever reducers are going to be used. Take a moment to teach them about drug safety.

First Grade to Middle School

Be a model listener. As your child grows, they’ll begin to develop opinions. They’ll see and experience more. Talk about it. Ask them questions, but keep those questions non-judgmental and open-ended. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings, no matter what they may be and use these chats to share important information.

High School and College

The dialogue doesn’t stop when kids start driving. If you’re open and approachable, it will grow during high school and college as they visit you with real time problems. Always stay calm, and never turn them away. Five minutes spent talking when they need it can change their life course indefinitely.

Drugs are dangerous, but not talking about them is even more dangerous. You can have a major impact on how your child views prescription, over-the-counter, and illicit drugs. Why not make it a positive one by opening the lines of communication early as they start or head back to school?