Timing is key. Consider asking them when it would be a good time to talk. This can help them think of any questions they might want to ask you and avoid putting them on the spot.

Choose a moment when they seem ready to engage, avoid distractions, and ensure they feel comfortable. After school, in the car, or before bed can work for many families.

It’s important to acknowledge that alcohol, drugs, and other addictive substances are present in the community, and these come with significant risks and consequences. 

Raise age-appropriate topics based on your concerns and invite them to share their thoughts. You can also discuss relevant examples from movies and TV and real-life situations where they may be exposed to these risks. Using examples with children can help them think through how they would respond and keep themselves safe.

It's also important to explain the legal and health consequences of risky behaviours, particularly regarding drugs and alcohol. 

Start by explaining the three broad categories of substances:

• everyday substances that can have addiction or withdrawal risks, like coffee or prescription medications
• legal substances with health and legal consequences, such as underage drinking fines or lung damage, like alcohol, cigarettes and vapes
• illegal substances that carry severe legal consequences, like fines or imprisonment, as well as serious health risks, like cocaine or MDMA.

These conversations can be challenging but keeping the lines of communication open shows children that you are there for support. It’s okay to pause and revisit the discussion if they're not ready to talk. This ongoing dialogue demonstrates that you value their well-being and are willing to discuss these important topics when they are ready.

Ensuring access to reliable information is key. Use trusted sources and apply the CRAAP Test to evaluate online content:

• C - Currency – is the information up to date?
• R - Relevance – does it apply to your child’s needs?
• A - Authority – Who is the author, and are they qualified?
• A - Accuracy – Do other reliable sources support the information?
• P - Purpose – Why was this information written?

Help children understand their rights and responsibilities when making decisions, particularly around alcohol and drugs. When children develop confidence in their decision-making, they are more likely to resist peer pressure and stay true to their values.

Children and teenagers will likely face situations where they feel pressured by their peers. Fostering strong values and self-respect helps children be better equipped to make independent choices rather than simply following the crowd.

Teaching children about consent helps them understand personal boundaries, appropriate behaviour and how to handle uncomfortable situations. Consent is relevant to every interaction, from physical touch to verbal interactions to online conversations. 

For more information, visit our section on Emerging Topics - Consent and Sexual Health - Sexual Consent.