It's clear that parents are talking to their kids more about drug use, and we know they've been talking to them about drinking and driving. Unfortunately, it's not so evident that enough of us make the connection between using illicit drugs and getting behind the wheel of a car.

Parents are the single greatest influence on their children when it comes to decision making about driving and using drugs-you CAN make a difference.

Have you talked to your kids about the risks of riding with someone who is driving high on marijuana?

Here are some things you can say and do when this issue comes up:

• Make sure drugged driving is part of any conversation you have when you talk about the dangers of drinking and driving.
  
  
• Discuss the physical effects that using marijuana and other drugs can have, like making it difficult to judge distances and react to signals and sounds on the road.
  
  
• Remind them to never get into a car with someone who has been using drugs or drinking. Tell them to call you so you can pick them up.
  
  
• Be a better listener. Ask questions - and encourage them. Paraphrase what your child says to you. Ask for their input about family decisions. Showing your willingness to listen will make your child feel more comfortable about opening up to you.
  
  
• Use TV reports, anti-drug commercials school discussions about drugs, or this Web site to help you introduce the subject in a natural, unforced way.
  
  
• Don't be afraid to ask where your kids are going, who they'll be with and what they'll be doing. Get to know your kid's friends - and their parents - so you're familiar with their activities.
  
  
• Build a network of adults you can talk with about school safety issues, alcohol and drug use. Substance abuse should be every parent's concern.
  
  
• Familiarize yourself with how drug education is being taught in your child's school.

Go to Previous page