Most parents understand that their child will be exposed to tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs sometime in their young lives. And many parents accept the fact that their child will not only be tempted to try using substances, but will possibly do so on one or more occasions during their teen years. Since the “just say no” message just doesn’t work with teens, parents have to look for other ways to reduce their child’s risk of experiencing substance-related harms.

Here are some of the ways you can help your child make healthier choices:

Talk with your child regularly about the teen experience, including situations where using substances is likely to be an option. Discuss the potential outcome of accepting offers for tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs. Ensure your teen knows that the choice is theirs, not their friend’s, and that with choices comes the possibility of suffering the consequences.

Help your child develop ways to turn down offers of substances without feeling awkward or ashamed. Encourage them to make their own choices rather than being manipulated by other people’s behaviour.

Encourage your child to take up activities that conflict with substance use. Kids with goals and dreams that involve staying in shape, having a clear head, or saving a great deal of money are more likely to turn down the party scene for fear it might interfere with their game, performance, or plans.

Make sure your child knows the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. And confirm that they understand the same principle applies to their being a passenger in a vehicle of someone else who’s been drinking or using drugs. Help them plan ahead for how they can get home safely if their original plan falls through.

Monitor your own substance use patterns and make sure your choices and decisions about tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs are in line with the ones you’re stressing to your child.

Teach your child some ways to stay in control. If, despite your efforts to discourage your child from using substances they do decide to drink or use drugs, it is important to provide them with the information needed to make infomed decisions.