FOR PARENTS

Talk Early and Often about Substance Use. 

More than 80 percent of young people ages 10-18 say Parents are the leading influence

on their decision whether to engage in substance use.

Tips on How to Connect with Youth

Children begin developing opinions and ideas including about alcohol and other substances, earlier than you may think. Research suggests that one of the most important factors in healthy child development is a strong, open relationship with a parent. It is important to start talking to your children about alcohol and other drugs before they are exposed to them. 


Talk early and often with your children about alcohol and other substances.  It's never too early to begin the talk.  Visit SAMHSA's Talk. They Hear You. "5 Conversation Goals" for conversation starter tips. 


Orange Partnership's student survey results reveal eye-opening data about what youth want to hear about from the parents/adults in their lives about substances:


  • they want to hear from us more often, but free from bias or judgement
  • they want us to be better educated about emerging products like vapes, and marijuana and how they've changed
  • they feel that the "peer influence" is # 1 influencer as to if they use substances 
  • yet, they feel that "Parents" have the least amount of influence

 

      Let's change that! 

      Do your part to be the #1 influencer in their lives.


ORANGE COUNTY STUDENTS WANT TO HEAR FROM PARENTS ABOUT SUBSTANCE USE:

(roll-over the graphs for more information)

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