Parents can take the following steps to encourage their children to avoid alcohol and drugs: 

• Spend time together regularly. 
• Listen and talk with your children. Try to understand the pressures placed on them and don't criticize their beliefs. 
• Keep track of where your children are, what they are doing, and who their friends are. 
• Get them involved in after-school activities, so they won't be able to just "hang out" with friends in the afternoon. This is when children are most likely to experiment.
• Praise or reward children often. If they feel good about themselves, they will be more confident and better able to resist peer pressure.
• Be a positive role model for your children. Don't abuse alcohol or drugs.

Tips for Parents on Keeping Children Drug Free

By. US Department of Education

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