can I drug proof my kids?

If you mean, "Can I stop my child from trying tobacco, alcohol or illegal drugs?", the answer is NO.

But if you mean, "Is there any way I can influence the choices my child makes?", the answer is YES.

Think of it this way, just because a hiker waterproofs their boots before setting off, doesn't mean the boots aren't going to get wet! They will when it rains or if they have to cross a stream. What the hiker has done however, as a result of education and experience, is taken all of the necessary precautions possible in order to prevent further damage to their footwear and feet.

Unfortunately there are no guarantees, but research shows that parents and families can play a vital role in keeping children from becoming involved with the harmful use of drugs. Learning how to respond appropriately to a child in any given situation, whether or not they are currently using, is so important. Simply telling casual or dependent users to stop, or lecturing young people to just say 'no' doesn't work.

Risk-taking is a normal part of growing up and it can be difficult as a parent to know how to respond. DPYK provides a place where parents can discuss these challenges together and learn from each others experiences.

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