While we know every child is at-risk for using substances, the danger triples for a young person entering high school. For youth entering middle school, the threat is no less, as this is an equally high time of transition. Most kids in younger grades tend to have strong anti-substance use attitudes. But the move to middle and high school brings with it a shift in those attitudes, due in part, to increased exposure to other students who are drinking, smoking and using other drugs. Many of these kids are older or are considered popular and appeal to a child’s desire to be like them and be liked by them. As to the stress factor, research shows that youth are additionally at increased risk for use during periods of change that bring about stress. So with or without an actual move, the many changes that accompany a new school year may be reason enough for youth to turn to substances.

Parents, here’s what you can do:

1. Be active and supportive in your child’s daily life
2. Ask questions about substance use and reinforce no use messages
3. Make clear your expectations and consequences for breaking rules
4. Know where your child is and who he or she is with
5. Do not allow your child to hang out with friends unsupervised

Source: How to Raise a Drug-Free Kid: The Straight Dope for Parents. Joseph A. Califano, Jr., 2009.