Children 10-12 years old love to learn facts and they want to learn how things work and what sources of information are available to them.  This is a period of slow physical growth when typically a lot of energy goes into learning.  Friends become very important, and often determine your child’s interests.   This age group is perhaps the most important time for parents to focus on increased efforts at drug prevention. 

What You Can Do  

• Encourage your child to participate in wholesome activities that will allow the child to form new friendships and have fun.
• Create special times when you are available to talk to your child, giving them your undivided attention.  For example, a walk together can make talking together a little easier.
• Teach your child to beware of how drugs and alcohol are promoted and that using alcohol and other drugs is NOT glamorous the way it is advertised.  Clearly separate the myths from reality.
• Continue to practice ways to say no with your child. It is not uncommon for sixth graders to be offered beer and cigarettes and to know other children who smoke and drink alcohol.
• Ask your child to scan the morning newspaper and to circle any article that has to do with drugs or alcohol.  No doubt there will be articles about drug-related murders or accidents.
• Make friends with the parents of your child’s friends so that you can reinforce one another’s efforts in teaching good personal and social habits.