Talk to your kids about today's designer drugs.

Because their friends are.

GetSmartNJ.org

A project of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey

Truth

Did your child ever ask if you did tried drugs?

Experts agree that it’s best to be honest. Behavioral scientist Tony Biglan, Ph.D., suggests that answering untruthfully can cause you to lose credibility with your kids if they ever discover that you’ve lied to them. You may decide that the time is not right to discuss the topic. Provide an appropriate answer based on your child’s level of maturity.
 

 When you are ready to talk, you don’t need to go into detail. Give short, honest answers like these: "Everybody makes mistakes. When I used drugs, I made a big one. I’m telling you about this even though it’s embarrassing, because I love you and I want to save you from making the same mistake."
 

If you’ve never experimented, share that truth as well. Offer refusal skills that worked for you or other ways you found to deal with peer pressure.  When this question is asked, bear in mind: Questions about your past drug use can be a signal that your child is curious, has been exposed or has tried a substance. Use the question as an opportunity for discussion. Find out what your child already knows about drugs.