Did you know that addiction is considered a childhood-onset disease? Research shows that up to 90% of adults who are addicted to substances started using a substance (whether alcohol, nicotine, marijuana or other drugs) before the age of 18. These numbers may seem daunting, but they also point to an amazing opportunity for parents. By delaying substance use, you can help your child grow up safe and healthy.

October 23-31 is Red Ribbon Week, a national drug abuse prevention campaign. We will be sharing information with students during the week of October 24, and we encourage you to take the opportunity to start a dialogue with your child about substance use. We have tips and resources below to help. You can use your positive influence to send the message that you want your child to stay drug free!

For more information and tips for raising drug-free kiddos, please click here. Thank you to the Safe & Healthy Homewood Collaborative for compiling and sharing these resources!