By Rebecca Hughes, Executive Director, ICARE Union County

November is a month filled with family gatherings, school activities, holidays and opportunities to reconnect with the people who matter most. It is also an excellent time for parents and caregivers to strengthen one of the most powerful prevention tools available: communication.

Talking with children about alcohol, tobacco, vaping, marijuana and other substances does not have to be a single, serious conversation. In fact, prevention works best when families have small, ongoing conversations that build trust and understanding over time.

Here are five conversations every parent or caregiver can have with a child or teen.

1. “What are you hearing at school?”

Start by asking what children are hearing from friends, classmates or social media. This can help parents understand what young people are encountering and give them an opportunity to correct misinformation.

2. “What would you do if someone offered you something?”

Rather than simply telling children to “just say no,” talk through realistic situations. Help them practice responses and develop an exit plan in case they ever feel uncomfortable.

3. “What are our family expectations?”

Children need clear and consistent expectations. Explain your family’s rules regarding alcohol, tobacco, vaping, marijuana, medications and other substances. Make sure children understand the reasons behind those expectations.

4. “How are you really doing?”

Substance use prevention is also about emotional well-being. Ask children about stress, friendships, school, bullying, relationships and other challenges. Sometimes a child needs someone to listen more than they need someone to provide an answer.

5. “Who can you go to for help?”

Help children identify trusted adults they can turn to when they have a problem. That might include a parent, grandparent, teacher, coach, counselor, school resource officer or another trusted adult.

The goal of these conversations is not to scare children. It is to equip them.

Young people will eventually make decisions without their parents standing beside them. The skills, information, confidence and relationships we build today can help prepare them for those moments.

As families gather this November, take advantage of opportunities to talk, listen, laugh and connect. Prevention doesn’t always look like a program or presentation. Sometimes prevention looks like sitting around the kitchen table and simply asking, “How are you doing?”

For prevention resources and community education opportunities, contact ICARE at 865-216-0475 or visit icareunioncounty.com.

ICARE is grateful for the community partners who work alongside the organization to strengthen Union County through prevention, education and recovery support. This month, ICARE recognizes coalition members Miller’s Chapel, Fresh Wagon and the Union County Sheriff’s Department. Thank you to these partners for helping make a difference in Union County!