Parent Tip

Studies confirm that children whose parents set and enforce clear rules on substance use, are much less likely to use in the first place. To help ensure these guidelines are remembered and followed, work together to put them in writing and ask all family members for their signature.

Here’s an example of a family contract adapted from the book, How to Raise A Drug-Free Kid: The Straight Dope for Parents, written by Joseph A. Califano, Jr.:

Child: I (we), _____, agree this is a tobacco and drug-free household, and that alcohol will be used only in moderation by adults. I agree to refrain from using any substances inside or outside our home.

Parent: I (we), _____, agree this is a tobacco and drug-free household. I (we) agree to set the right example regarding substance use both inside and outside our home.

Our family agrees on the following substance-use rules and consequences:

Young people will not drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes or use any drugs.
Young people will not stay at parties where alcohol and other drugs are available.
Young people will not allow friends to bring alcohol, tobacco or other drugs into the house.
Young people will not drive drunk or high (or accept a ride with someone who is high or has been drinking).
Parents will pick up kids at any time if they need a safe ride home.
No one (including parents) is to provide alcohol to anyone underage.
Older siblings will encourage younger siblings not to drink, smoke or use drugs.

(List rewards and consequences for each rule, if followed or broken.)

Signed by: ______________________________ Date: ________

Sources: Califano Jr., Joseph A.: How to Raise a Drug-Free Kid: The Straight Dope For Parents, 2009. CESAR: Students With Parents Who Set and Enforce Clear Rules Less Likely to Report Illicit Drug Use, Oct. 2009.