Page 15 While it’s never too early or too late to talk about substance use with your kids, the current opioid crisis is a reminder of just how important this conversation is. Parents are understandably worried and concerned about how to best protect their children from harm. So what do we know about the best way to approach this issue with our children? It may be tempting to focus on stats and fears, however research shows that scare-based, lecture- like tactics don’t work and may actually lead to a loss of trust and reduce opportunities for good conversations. Talk openly with kids from an early age about all drugs—including prescription drugs, alcohol, tobacco, caffeine and illicit drugs—to help them to understand what they are. As children become young adults, help them make healthy choices by maintaining good relationships and having conversations that encourage healthy behaviour. This includes conversations about their decisions around substance use, including alcohol, medications and other drugs. Talking to Youth about substance Use: Guidance for Parents and Caregivers By Douglas Hardie, Central / North Island Program Coordinator