Whether it’s a rather odd whiff coming from their bag or an overheard conversation with their friends, parents always find out one way or another. In the modern world it’s hard to stop children from experimenting with drugs, mainly because the War on Drugs was a total failure. Rather than put people off the idea of taking drugs, it’s now seen as even more taboo and thus more fun to be involved in.
Throw in the softening of attitudes towards drugs and the whole scenario changes. What was once seen as a massive failing in life is now seen as something you need to do if you want to be socially mobile. Thankfully, neither of these positions are true – and both can most definitely be avoided.
As a parent, you might be apprehensive to bring up drugs with your children. Whether it’s a fear of feeling controlling or starting a massive argument, many parents aren’t too keen to raise the spectre to their children the longer time goes. So, to help you do so, here are some things to consider about bringing up potential drug use.
- Do your Research. First off, take the time needed to read into each of the main drugs you want to take a look at. Take a look at the facts, not what you learned in school. To be blunt, the facts have changed since the “facts” were first produced decades ago. It turns out that many of the old stereotypes (for and against) are not true. Make sure the version of events you will be giving to your children is fact, not fiction.
- Get Backup. Make sure you arrive armed to the teeth with good stats and facts about the message you want to give to your children. Whether it’s warning about the problems with addiction to even being blunt and looking at the financial costs, you can find it easier to talk to your kids about this stuff when you have facts. When you can show them Dr. X or Professor Y said what you are saying, not just “my parents”, it becomes easier to convince.
- Understand Choice. Remember, when you start talking with your kids about this stuff it’s supposed to be a conversation. This means both parties talk and ask questions. Keep your moral crusader cape in the cupboard on this one, and talk about it like adults. Your children could be far more informed about drug use and management than you think. Don’t just assume they know nothing of safe consumption or usage – and make them understand this is an educational talk, not a time for decisions.
It’s tough to accept the fact that one day your babies might have a penchant for enjoying marijuana – it’s not nice to know their innocence could become so “lost”. However, arming yourself with information and tackling it like an adult is far more likely to elicit the response you hoped for.