Programs + Resources

Talk Early, Talk Often

TALK EARLY, TALK OFTEN…KEEP TALKING!

Parents are the #1 influence in a child’s life.

It’s not too early to talk with your child to prevent youth substance use.

When to Talk

• In a car, you have a captive audience to provide short bits of information.
• When watching TV, address any illegal drug or alcohol use shown.
• During mealtimes, take time to speak with your child – research shows that children who have dinner with their families are less likely to drink alcohol or use illegal drugs.

What to say

• Preschool: “Vitamins are to keep us healthy, but only take what I give you.”
• Elementary School: “You should only take medicines that your doctor chooses for you – it’s dangerous to take someone else’s medicine and it could make you sick.”
• Middle School: “Alcohol and drugs can damage your brain and may stop you from being your best in school and in sports.”

Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey- 2019 5th and 6th Grade Students
Growing Up Drug Free: A Parent’s Guide to Prevention
Talk Early, Talk Often Brochure
Talk Early, Talk Often Poster
Transitions from Preschool to College Poster
Transitions from Preschool to College Rack Card