Experts writing in Family Circle say that with more time on their hands in summer, teens are more likely to try drugs, especially marijuana. You need to have "the talk."
* To get started, say they're at an age where they might be offered marijuana, and you're wondering what they think about that. Try to get the teen to speak up and give you an insight.
* Mention that you know they don't want to talk about it, and it's not easy for you either, but you're hoping you can navigate the issue together. Let your kid know the conversation is crucial so you both become aware of where the other stands.
* If you have discovered paraphernalia in your teen's room, you'll want to know what's happening. Ask if there is something going on in their lives that they think pot helps them deal with.
Confide to them that one reason you're asking is that at their age they take a huge risk by using any substance now. In the teens, the brain is still developing so don't interfere with that.