We’ve written about how to talk to your child about alcohol – and how that conversation can start as early as age 9. But what if your child is now a teen, and you’re just now talking about drugs and alcohol? It’s never too late to start the conversation, and we’re here to guide you with these teen-specific tips.
Why it’s critical to talk about impaired driving
Teen drivers are at exceptionally high risk – 24% of teens involved in fatal crashes in 2023 had been drinking, and even prescription or over‑the‑counter drugs that impair judgment are dangerous behind the wheel (NHTSA). Impaired driving is fully preventable, and parents are the most powerful influence in shaping teen choices around alcohol and substances (SAMHSA).
When – and how – to begin the conversation
As we mentioned, the conversation about drugs and alcohol can start earlier than you think: kids as young as 9 years old can begin forming positive views of alcohol, and early, ongoing dialogue builds resilience. If you haven’t started talking to your teen about drugs and alcohol yet, don’t wait. Instead of one “big talk,” aim for frequent, brief, age-appropriate conversations.
How to have effective, trust-building conversations
Use face‑to‑face, open‑ended dialogue:
- Ask: “What have you heard about friends and driving when drinking or using drugs?”
- Listen more than you lecture – and encourage honesty without punishing disclosure.
- Make it real: if a friend’s driving choices or an incident makes you uncomfortable, share your thoughts calmly and without shaming.
SAMHSA’s “Talk. They Hear You.” campaign outlines five goals for parent conversations: starting talks early, being honest, explaining risks, setting rules, and supporting refusal skills.
Conversation starters for impaired driving talks
- “Did you ever ride with someone who had been drinking or using drugs? How did that feel?”
- “If someone offered to drink and then drive, what would you do?”
- “Do you know the legal age and penalties – even for marijuana or prescription meds combined with driving?”
- “What would you do if you saw a friend who had been drinking or using drugs attempt to drive?”
Setting clear expectations around impaired driving
Being open-minded and an attentive listener does not mean you shouldn’t be firm and clear about your rules and expectations for impaired driving. Make sure your teen knows:
- It’s illegal and unsafe to drive under the influence – Marijuana and even prescription or over-the-counter drugs can impair driving ability.
- You have a zero-tolerance policy – No substance use of any kind before getting behind the wheel.
- Establish consequences and model consistent safe behavior (e.g., never driving after drinking or while on meds that impair).
Practical tools and resources for parents
- SAMHSA’s fact sheets and brochures, including “Impaired Driving: Talk With Your Kids,” help guide conversations.
- Download the They Hear You mobile app, which offers tips to turn everyday moments into teachable opportunities.
Don’t stop talking about it. Your ongoing role matters most.
Conversations shouldn’t stop once your teen earns their license. Studies show that frequent, ongoing dialogue both before and during early driving years builds awareness and supports safer decisions (SAMHSA). By modeling safe behavior – never driving impaired – and reinforcing clear rules, you shape what safe driving means in your family.
By starting early, maintaining open communication, and modeling safe behavior, you dramatically lower the risk your teen will drive under the influence – or ride with someone who does. For more tips, download SAMHSA materials or visit NHTSA’s teen-driving resources to anchor your talks with reliable data and tools.
Together, we can prevent impaired driving and keep our teens safe.
No DUI NoCo is a regional coalition working to end impaired driving in Northern Colorado through education, outreach, and community partnerships.
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