Keeping your kids drug free in school

Baltimore - A new federal study shows students between 12- and 14-years-old have had a drink in the past month. The study goes on to say that those who drink before 15-years-old are six times more likely to develop drinking problems.

It's a crisis for parents, who may many times feel helpless.

Ben Shifrin, Head of Jemicy School, joined Megan and Charley on Good Morning Maryland at Nine to offer parents and schools tips for making their classrooms and homes safe.

Below is a list of tips Shifrin offers parents:

• Talk to your teen about drugs and alcohol and clearly state your family’s rules regarding underage drug and alcohol use. Research shows that kids are less likely to use these substances if parents have these conversations with them.

• Know who your kids’ friends are and keep the lines of communication open with the friends’ parents. Don’t hesitate to call other parents to ask if they will be home during a party and if alcohol will be served.

• Monitor your child’s digital communications. Facebook and text messaging are their main modes of communication with each other.

• It is okay for parents to randomly drug test their child. It is easy to purchase a kit at the local drug store. Explain to your child that they can stay out until midnight on Friday, but that they will be tested randomly. Explain that it is not because you don’t trust them, but because you want to keep them safe.

• Be aware that a new drug trend for teens is using prescription medications to get high. Be cognizant of the medications in your own home and promptly dispose of old or unused medications.

• Schools need to maintain a clear policy about drug and alcohol use and the consequences that come with violation of the policy. Consequences must be enforced consistently in order to make students think twice before committing a violation.

• Another way schools can help is by bringing in outside experts to present programs designed to help students make intelligent, healthy choices about alcohol and other drug use.

• If you do catch your child with drugs or alcohol, it is vitally important to use this as an opportunity for education. Emphasize the negative health implications of exposing their bodies to these substances.