How to Talk to Children About Drugs Before It’s Too Late

If you don’t talk to your child about drugs—someone else will.
And that “someone” might be a classmate, a YouTuber, or a drug dealer. Many parents wait until there’s a problem before speaking up, but prevention starts early. Talking openly builds trust and protects your child before they’re exposed.

Step 1: Start Early—Before Temptation Begins

You don’t need to wait until your child is a teenager. Instead:

• Use simple, age-appropriate language
• Explain what drugs do to the brain and body
• Start around ages 7–9 for awareness, and go deeper by 11–13
• Revisit the topic regularly, not just once

Kids are exposed earlier than you think. Silence isn’t protection—it’s permission.

Step 2: Keep the Conversation Open and Honest

Avoid lectures. Instead:

• Ask questions like “What do you think drugs are?”
• Listen without interrupting
• Share your own beliefs clearly
• Don’t exaggerate—kids spot fear tactics

An honest conversation earns their trust and encourages them to come to you later.

Step 3: Use Real-Life Examples

Talk about:

• Celebrities who struggled with addiction
• News stories of overdoses or arrests
• Local problems they may have heard about
• Family history (if relevant)

Make it relatable—not abstract. This shows that consequences are real and close to home.

Step 4: Empower Them to Say “No”

Teach them how to:

• Handle peer pressure
• Use confident body language
• Offer alternative responses (“No thanks, I’m training for sports”)
• Get out of risky situations with a call or code word

👉 Use our visual materials to reinforce lessons: Narconon Video Library

Step 5: Follow Up Regularly

Make drug education a normal part of growing up—not a one-time lecture. Ask:

• “Have you ever been offered anything at school?”
• “What would you do if someone pressured you?”
• “Do your friends talk about this stuff?”

Keep the door open. They’ll walk through it when they’re ready.

👉 For printable materials and conversation guides, visit: Drug Education & Prevention Materials

❓ Frequently Asked Questions: Talking to Kids About Drugs

When should I start talking to my child about drugs?
As early as 7–9 years old. Keep it age-appropriate and build on it as they grow.

What if I used drugs in the past?
Be honest without glorifying it. Use your experience to teach, not to hide.

Should I tell them drugs are always deadly?
Be truthful. Don’t exaggerate. Focus on how drugs affect health, focus, emotions, and goals.

What if my child is already curious or experimenting?
Stay calm. Ask questions, don’t accuse. Get help early and reinforce positive alternatives.

How can I make sure they really listen?
Stay engaged in their life. Trust builds over time through presence, not just words.