The world is shaped to worries: the terrible consequences of abuse, the easy addictions. A singular taste can lead to complications. A simple inhalation can spark need. These horrors exist — but they won’t enter your home. This is your belief, gained from the experiences of your own life, the temptations you were able to deny. You’ve never had to rely on drugs and your children therefore will be the same. They’ll learn to mimic your wisdom; they’ll refuse all substances. There is no reason then to speak of these concerns.  They have no relevancy to you or your family.

It’s all too shocking then when your one of your children admits to sampling cocaine.

He claims he didn’t know not to — and, while this is an exaggeration, you’re forced to concede that it’s still shaded to a partial truth.

Morality is established in youth. Judgment is learned through observation. Children who are exposed to the dangers of substances early (offered the statistics and potential problems) are therefore likely to avoid addiction. Knowledge breeds awareness; awareness breeds contempt. When the intrigue of drugs is stripped away — and shown instead to be unhealthy — youths will respond with sense.

It is estimated that teens are 51 percent more likely to refuse all illegal substances when they have been told about the hazards of them by their parents. That number increases to a staggering 62 percent when those hazards are examined early — with children as young as five being warned of the risks. Conversations provide the necessary facts and confidence to refuse addiction.

It is imperative therefore that all parents speak with their children about all forms of drugs. While this cannot guarantee success during their teenage years, it will still provide the best defense possible. Discuss abuse; explain the concerns; and be certain your children cannot claim ignorance as an excuse. Offer them the facts (early) so they can make the appropriate decisions.