Don't assume that there is no chance that your teen could become an alcoholic or drug addict! Even "good" kids can begin using drugs and alcohol due to peer pressure because they want to feel a sense of belonging. As discussed in a previous article, the signs of teen drug use usually involve changes in the crowd a teen hangs out with, gradual or sudden poor performance academically and a loss of interest in usual activities and sports. However, even if your teen is not exhibiting any of the above signs, they may still be experimenting with drugs and alcohol.
Many kids who experiment with drugs and alcohol develop a problem, so all parents must do everything they can to limit their child's opportunities to do so. Here are some things you as a parent can do to minimize chances your teen can experiment with drugs:

• If you allow  your teen to stay out late, stay up till they get home so you can get a sense of their demeanor or smell alcohol or drugs on their breath and clothes.

• If your teen is home alone because you are at work, drop in unexpectedly to monitor what they are doing.

• Make sure you know how  your teen is performing at school.

• Get to know your child's friends.

• Regularly communicate with your teen  about he dangers of alcohol abuse and drug use.

• Know what your teen is doing outside of your home

• Have your neighbors keep an eye on the house when you are not home.

• Always encourage your child to bring over his/her friends so you can see what type of crowd they are.