Talk with Your Teens

As a part of the Alcohol and Cannabis Policy Coalition Organization, we are committed to providing parents, guardians, and educators with the tools and resources needed to engage in meaningful and effective conversations with teens about alcohol and cannabis use. Our mission is to empower families with knowledge, support, and strategies to promote healthy choices and prevent substance misuse among youth.

Below, you’ll find a variety of resources to help guide these important discussions.

Why Talk with Your Teens?

• Early Prevention:

  Conversations about alcohol and cannabis can start as early as elementary school. Early and ongoing dialogue can prevent substance misuse.

• Building Trust:

  Open communication fosters trust and strengthens relationships between parents and teens.

• Informed Decisions:

  Educating teens about the risks and consequences of alcohol and cannabis helps them make informed choices.

• Supportive Environment:

  Teens who feel supported and understood are less likely to turn to substances as a coping mechanism.

How to Start the Conversation

Be Informed:

• Educate yourself about the effects and risks of alcohol and cannabis.
• Understand the local laws and policies related to underage drinking and cannabis use.

Choose the Right Moment:

• Find a quiet, relaxed time to talk.
• Avoid starting the conversation during a conflict or when emotions are high.

Be Honest and Direct:

• Share your concerns and reasons for wanting to discuss these topics.
• Be clear about your expectations and the reasons behind them.

Listen Actively:

• Give your teen the chance to share their thoughts and feelings.
• Respond without judgment or immediate correction.

Key Topics to Discuss

• Health Risks:

  Explain how alcohol and cannabis can affect a developing brain and body.

• Legal Consequences:

  Discuss the legal implications of underage use.

• Peer Pressure:

  Equip your teen with strategies to handle situations where they might feel pressured to use substances.

• Safe Practices:

  Talk about the importance of making safe choices and looking out for friends.

Resources for Parents and Teens

For Parents

• Conversation Guides:

  Step-by-step guides to help initiate and navigate discussions.

• Educational Materials:

  Brochures, videos, and articles on the effects of alcohol and cannabis.

  • Be Blunt

• Support Networks:

  Links to local support groups and online communities for parents.

For Teens

• Fact Sheets:

  Easy-to-understand information about alcohol and cannabis.

• Interactive Tools:

  Quizzes and activities to learn about the impact of substances.

• Peer Stories:

  Real-life stories from teens about their experiences with substance use and prevention.