words & actions

from eMedicineHealth;

"What parents say is important and what they do is important," she says. "The expectations that you set will also drive your kids' behavior," she says. "Set high expectations, be clear about these expectations, communicate these expectations, and model healthy behavior," she says.

"There is no question that actions speak louder than words," says Joseph A. Califano Jr., the founder and chairman of CASA and the author of How to Raise a Drug-Free Kid. But it's not just 'don't get drunk in front of your kids,' you also have to communicate with your children all along, have family dinners frequently, go to their games and events, and attend religious services as a family. Then when you do talk to them, you will really have some power to influence their conduct and get them to choose not to use."

some good advice, far beyond the ineffective "just say no" campaign.

many parents have difficulty in discussing drinking and drugs with
their children and teens.

while beneficial, open dialogue may not always counteract peer
pressure and curiosity.

the bottom line is, there are many factors involved; we can only
educate and lead by example.