Expectations and Boundaries

Set Clear Expectations and Boundaries

Kids thrive when boundaries are clear. Talk to your child when you are both calm, and lay out your family’s boundaries and expectations around substance use directly and clearly.

• Check in regularly: Have regular discussions from an early age with consistent and age appropriate messages about the risks of alcohol and other drugs.
• Talk about the risks: Alcohol or other substance use can permanently harm developing brains, and significantly increases the chances of engaging in risky behavior.
• Create a safety exit strategy: Create a “code word” or a specific emoji they can text you to signal that they need an immediate, no-questions-asked pickup if they get into an uncomfortable situation.
• Balance rules with trust: Be consistent with consequences and celebrate when your child does the right thing. Recognizing their good choices shows them that respecting your rules builds trust and can lead to more independence.
• Be a role model: if you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Demonstrate safe behaviors by never driving after drinking alcohol or using cannabis. Use prescription medicine only as prescribed by your health care provider.