How to Talk to Kids & Young Adults About Substances

3-5 YearsBuilding Healthy Foundations

Focus on making healthy choices rather than discussing substances directly. Use everyday moments to talk about what helps our bodies stay strong. Point out dangerous products in your home and explain they're harmful to the body.

• "Our bodies need healthy foods, sleep, and exercise to grow strong."
• "Some things—like medicine—help us when we're sick, but can hurt us if we're not sick. We only take them from a trusted adult."
• "Not everything we see (or smell) is safe to put in our bodies. If you're ever unsure, ask me or another grown-up!"

6-10 YearsPromote safe decision-making and begin educating on substances

Kids may begin to notice or ask about substances. Ask open-ended questions and answer their own. Continue to use everyday moments to talk about what helps our bodies stay strong.

• "Some things, like cigarettes and alcohol, can hurt our bodies, especially when we're young and our bodies and brains are growing."
• "If you ever see something and you're not sure what it is, you can always ask me."
• "People sometimes make unhealthy choices, and for lots of different reasons. We know our bodies and can choose what's best for us."
• “Every body is different. Some choices that might be safe for one person are not safe for someone else.” [This can be a helpful way to address the use of prescription medication or moderate alcohol or cannabis consumption among adults]

11-14 YearsExpanding Awareness & Peer Pressure Conversations

Kids at this age may have peers who are using substances. Be ready to answer questions based on their experiences. Keep explanations simple and encourage open-ended questions.

• “What have you seen or heard about drugs and alcohol?”
• "You might start hearing about people vaping or drinking. Just because something is common doesn't mean it's safe."
• "Your brain is still growing, and substances can make it harder to focus, play sports, or make good decisions."
• "If someone offers you something, it's okay to say no. Want to practice what you'd say?"
• “It's normal to be curious about substances. I want you to know you can always come to me with questions.”

15-18 YearsMaking Independent, Informed Choices

Teens are making more of their own decisions. Discuss real-world consequences (health, legal, academic) and reinforce trust. You can choose to give examples from your own experience but be careful not to glamorize substance use.

• "At your age, some people experiment with substances. It's normal to be curious and important to know the risks."
• "Underage drinking and drug use can lead to serious consequences. That could include physical effects, legal trouble, accidents, and losing opportunities."
• “Your brain is still growing until your mid-twenties. Alcohol and drugs can be especially dangerous when your brain is still in development”
• "If you ever feel pressured, need a ride, or just want to talk, I want you to know you can always call me."
• “Let's make a plan together for what to do if someone offers you drugs or alcohol.”

19-24 YearsNavigating Adulthood & Long-Term Impacts

Young adults face new challenges, including legal drinking, college culture, and workplace expectations. Conversations should focus on long-term well-being and responsibility.

• "Drinking or using drugs can affect your health, career, and safety. What is your plan to stay safe?"
• “Your brain is still growing until your mid-twenties. Alcohol and drugs can be especially dangerous when your brain is still in development”
• "If you ever need support—whether it's about substances, stress, or anything else—you're not alone."