^{By Christine McCall, Addiction Recovery Specialist}

Navigating conversations with teens about drugs and alcohol can feel overwhelming—but it's one of the most important talks for a teen. With increasing exposure to substances through social media, teens need guidance, support and information now more than ever. These discussions, when approached with empathy and consistency, can help teens make safer, more informed choices. Below are five practical tips to help you open the door to meaningful conversations that build trust and resilience.

1. Start Early.  Many parents struggle to determine the right age to begin conversations about substance use. The truth is, it's possible—and important—to talk about substances at any age in a developmentally appropriate way. For example, you might explain to a 4-year-old that medication should only be prescribed by a doctor and given by a trusted adult. A 10-year-old, on the other hand, can start to understand how drugs and alcohol affect the brain, especially when these discussions are integrated with broader conversations about growing bodies and what to expect during adolescence.
2. Talk Often. It's not about having one 50-minute conversation, it's about having 50 one-minute conversations. Children and teens respond well to repetition, especially as their brains continue to develop and change. Simple check-ins or sharing your thoughts during natural moments of connection are far more effective than one big, formal talk. When these discussions become a regular part of your dialogue, it encourages openness and honesty, helping teens feel safe coming to you with questions or concerns.
3. Don’t Make Assumptions. Parents may make assumptions that their child is getting all this information from school. While your child may receive some education about drugs and alcohol at school, these lessons often come too late—and not frequently enough. That’s why it’s so important for parents and caregivers to have these conversations at home. Without your guidance, your child may turn to sources like TikTok or peers for information, which can be inaccurate or misleading.
4. Set clear no-use boundaries. Since major brain development continues through adolescence and into the mid-20s, alcohol and other drug use should be delayed to protect both the brain and body. In fact, teens who begin using drugs or alcohol before age 18 are four to seven times more likely to develop a substance use disorder later in life.
   At the same time, teens should know that if they ever need help—such as a ride home—they can call without fear of judgment, questions or lectures. This approach is consistent, supportive and empathetic, prioritizing their safety.
5. Build their confidence and decision making. Support their involvement in positive activities that reinforce self-esteem and surround them with peers who share similar values. When teens feel confident in themselves and their choices, they’re more likely to stand strong in tough situations.

JCFS Chicago offers training and consultation to parents and people working with youth on how to best navigate these conversations. For more information, please call our intake team at 855.275.5237.