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Make
the Call

Help prevent underage
substance use

Your game plan

Success, whether it’s on the field or in life, doesn’t happen by chance. It takes preparation and practice. It’s the same with kids and substance use. Getting ahead of temptations and situations is the best defense in preventing alcohol and other drug use.

We’ve included some advice and resources to help you develop your game plan.

House party?
Know the rules!

Parents are legally responsible for underage drinking and cannabis use that happens on their property—even if they aren’t home, even if they didn’t know.
Here’s what can happen:

  • $2,000 fine
  • Jail time
  • Probation
  • Criminal charges

Be clear and firm about alcohol and other drugs being strictly off limits to your kids and to their friends. Learn more about Connecticut’s Social Host Law.

Draft your kid to the winning team!

Did you know? Most kids are not using drugs and alcohol. Help them take from a winning playbook by sharing these numbers with them.

⅔ of students have never tried alcohol by 8th grade

3 out of 4 students have never tried cannabis by 12th grade

Delaying alcohol and drug use protects a teen’s future. In fact, 25% of people with an addiction started using before age 18, compared to only 4% who started at 21 or older.
Learn more about Prevention of Substance Use.

Family huddle: Tips for caregivers

As a parent or mentor, you make a big difference in your kids’ lives. What you think and say to them about alcohol and cannabis use matters. Here are some tips for keeping the ball rolling:

Set clear boundaries

Let your kids know the family’s rules and expectations on drugs and alcohol. Clear boundaries help them know what behavior is okay and what isn’t.

Help them prepare

Work with your teen on what they can say if they’re offered alcohol or cannabis and ways to resist peer pressure.

Don’t wait to bring it up

Silence sends a mixed message. If it doesn’t rise to the level of a conversation, kids may think it’s okay to try alcohol and other drugs.

For more information, visit Talk. They Hear You.

Stay in the safe zone: Tips for teens

You’re part of a family – and that means you play on a team.
If you’re not feeling okay and you’re keeping it to yourself, you may be at greater risk for substance use.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you feel overwhelmed with the pressures of school, friends, and family?
  • Are you feeling depressed or anxious?
  • Do you sleep more than usual?
  • Are you having trouble focusing?

If you answered yes to any of these, you should talk to someone you trust.
You can also get free, confidential help here: SAMHSA’s National Helpline

Your home team

Community Coalitions are local organizations dedicated to preventing underage substance use through education, outreach, and community programs.
If you’d like to get involved in preventing underage substance use in your area, visit:

SMART (Southbury & Middlebury Acting Responsibly Together): SMART is dedicated to creating safer and healthier individuals, families, & communities by reducing substance misuse, promoting positive decisions, and supporting strong mental health wellness.

TCC (Thomaston Community Coalition): TCC is dedicated to fostering a stronger, healthier, and more connected community by supporting local initiatives, promoting civic engagement, and preventing youth alcohol and drug use.