The Agents discuss the best way to start a conversation with your teen about drugs and alcohol and why it is important. Substance misuse in adolescents happens quite often, yet how parents respond can be vital on if a child continues to use or not. We know teens need structure to stay safe. Listen as they discuss building relationships before rules. It is crucial to have clear rules about drugs and alcohol. You can’t guarantee that your rules won’t be broken. But research shows that kids who have clear rules, even if they’re broken, are less likely to get into serious trouble than kids who don’t. It can be hard to know what to say. Don’t surprise kids with a big talk. Instead, let your child know you want to have a conversation about drinking and drugs. Be clear about rules and specific about what will happen if kids break them. Kids do best when they know what to expect.