1. Start Talking to your kids at an early age about drugs

It's never too early to start positive lines of communication

• CDC - Positive parenting tips ​

2. Listen carefully to your child 

...and educate yourself so you can answer their questions

• Active Listening

3. Be a model of healthy behavior for your child

What they see is what they do. Kids learn best by example.

4. Don't be afraid of setting rules

Parental disapproval of drug use plays a strong role in keeping kids drug free. Be in charge.

5. Get to know your children's friends and their parents

Work together with the parents to set common boundaries and monitor behavior. There's strength in numbers. ​

6. Keep your child enganged in after school activities

Children who engage in extracurricular activities, such as sports, drama club, etc., gain confidence and life skills. BUT, don't overdo it. Give your kids some downtime to relax and recharge.

• NT High School - Clubs and Activities
• ​NT High School and Middle School Athletics
• NT Middle School Website 
• ​Drake Elementary School Website
• Ohio Elementary School Website
• ​Spruce Elementary School Website
• Programs and Memberships North Tonawanda Department of Youth, Recreation, and Parks
• NT Youth Center - The Rec Activities
  

7. Make sure your child's school has anti-drug policies

Learn your kid's school policies and if they don't exist or are not strong enough, work to create or strengthen them

• North Tonawanda City School District Policies 
• North Tonawanda Student Handbook
  

8. Get involved in your child's school

Parental involvement is a strong predictor of academic success. Your presence will make a difference.

• Parent Groups - North Tonawanda City School District
• ​School Calendar - North Tonawanda City School District 

9. Lock up your medications at home

Secure your medicine cabinet at home, take inventory regularly and safely dispose of unused medications

• Prescription Drug Drop Box Locations in Niagara County​ ​

10. Eat dinner together regularly

kids who eat dinner regularly with their families 5 or more times a week are much less likely to experiment with and abuse drugs and alcohol

• Quick and Easy Dinner Ideas to Make During the Week

​

Resource: Informed families 2014