Every parent wants what's best for their kids and when it comes to the topic of drug abuse you can never be too cautious.  There's no way you can watch what your children are doing 24 hours a day but with a little bit of work and by making a few strategic moves there are ten proven ways you can prevent your teen from taking drugs.

1.   Be there for your teen when they need help getting out of a tough situation.

If your teenager faces a tough situation such as winding up at a party where drugs or alcohol are available, be the one who will pick them up without being too harsh or making repercussions.

2.  Get to know your teen's friends and their parents (on a first name basis).

When you know who your teen is hanging out with it will help you to know what they are doing.

3. Explain the dangers and consequences of drug abuse to your teen.

Talk about how people who are using drugs often say or do things that they normally would not do.  Set clear limits about what would happen if your teen uses drugs and follow through with those rules if they are broken.

4.  Stay connected with your teen after they return from school.

Establish a routine for your teen to keep them busy after school hours and try to remain connected with them.  If you can't be home with your teen leave them notes, call them or have another adult supervise them.  You can also sign your teen up for an after school program that can keep them out of harm's way.

5. Drop any baggage you may be carrying about the mistakes you made as a teenager.

Try not to let your past influence your teen in a negative way.  Tap into the mature adult you have become and let go of the past.

6.  Talk to your teen often about drugs.

By having frequent conversations (not lectures) with your teen about drugs, they are less likely to use.  Use an ice breaker to make yourself more comfortable if you must, such as taking a message from a television or radio show.

7. Encourage your teen to get involved in extra-curricular activities.

Extra-curricular activities can help your teen form a positive identity while keeping them from becoming bored.  By engaging in sports, clubs or community organizations, teens have less time on their hands and are less likely to use drugs.

8. Ask your teen questions when they are making plans to go out for the night.
Start by asking questions such as who your teen will be with, where they are going and what they'll be doing and then follow up by checking up on them while keeping in touch with other parents.

9. Become a role model for your teen.

If you decide to drink in front of your teens, try to drink responsibly.  And if you don't want your teen to use illegal drugs, then you shouldn't either. 

10. Establish strong family beliefs to unite your family against using drugs.

Establish that your family believes that there are healthier ways to enjoy life and fix problems than by using drugs.