Continued from Snurf: Adorable Name, Deadly Drug: Page 2.

So how can you steer your kid away from drug experimentation? "It's hard," says teen expert and psychologist Dr. Lisa Boesky, author of When to Worry: How to Tell If Your Teen Needs Help--And What to Do About It, "It's a time of experimentation and risk-taking--and you can't be with your kid 24/7." But, says Dr. Boesky, there are steps you can take:

Educate, educate, educate
Be clear on what's off-limits. Explain to them that they shouldn't take any pills--herbal, prescription or over-the counter without your permission. Do your best to educate on the permanent damage these substances can do when taken in large doses.

Don't just say no to drugs--ask why
Just saying no often won't get them to stop--find out why they're doing it will. Are they looking for a thrill? Are they trying to escape negative emotions, a stressful home life or struggles at school? If so, what steps can you take to help make their lives more manageable?

Avoid the three most dangerous words: Not my kid.
When it comes to drugs, burying your head in the sand is not the answer. Parents who refuse to believe kids are doing drugs might be in for a terrible surprise. Not only do you have to educate your kids, you also have to educate yourself. Parents should always keep one step ahead of their kids when it comes to teen drug trends.

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