Practice, evidence-based tips to help your child thrive. This page helps families start prevention early, build connection, and find trusted guidance they can use today.

Download parenting tips

  • Quick Actions: “Download conversation starters,” “See age-by-age tips,” “Find a parenting program,” “Get help now.” 
  • Evidence-based strategies: (Build connection daily, Set clear, consistent limits, Monitor, don’t spy, Model healthy coping, talking points by age – 1 PDF/handout. 
  • Programs that work: 
  • NJ tab: state-listed evidence-based parenting classes and community orgs. 
  • National tab: Partnership to End Addiction articles, SAMHSA family resources. 
  • “This list is not exhaustive, this is listing that RARC researchers deemed/ implemented to best practices (etc)” (For the future: if you think your program should be on this list – future leadership meeting, how to evaluate who would) 

What works in prevention 

Small, consistent actions at home make a difference. 

Build connection every day 

  • Short check-ins after school, device-free dinners, shared activities. 
  • [Conversation starters] 

Set clear, kind limits 

  • Agree on curfews, screen time, and consequences in advance. 
  • [Family rules worksheet] 

Know the who, where, when 

  • Ask who your child is with, where they are going, and when they will be home. 
  • [Simple monitoring checklist] 

Model coping and help-seeking 

  • Talk about stress and how you handle it. Normalize asking for help. 
  • [Coping plan template] 

Sleep and routines 

  • Regular bed and wake times improve mood and decision making. 
  • [Quick sleep guide] 

Talking to your child about substances 

Keep it short. Keep it frequent. Stay curious. 

Ages 10–13 

  • Focus on health, safety, and peer pressure skills. 
  • [Age 10–13 talking points] 

Ages 14–17 

  • Add decision making, driving safety, parties, and social media. 
  • [Age 14–17 talking points] 

Age 18+ 

  • Discuss campus life, consent, mixing substances, and getting home safely. 
  • [Age 18+ talking points] 

If you are worried right now 

  • Stay calm. Share specific observations. Ask open questions. 
  • Offer help, not punishment. 

Programs and supports for families 

Evidence-based skills are teachable and effective. 

New Jersey 

  • [State directory of parenting programs] 
  • [School and community programs] 
  • [Local counseling and family services] 

Nationwide 

  • [Partnership to End Addiction resources for parents] 
  • [SAMHSA family resources] 
  • [Parent training programs with evidence] 

Prefer to talk to a person? Call 1-800-662-HELP for a referral in your area. 

When treatment is needed 

If your child needs help beyond prevention, here is how to start. 

  • Find quality care 
  • New Jersey: [NJ treatment finder], [County services] 
  • National: [Shatterproof Treatment Atlas], [SAMHSA treatment locator] 
  • What to ask programs 
  • Do you use evidence-based care 
  • Are medications available for opioid or alcohol use 
  • How do you involve families 
  • [First call checklist] 
  • What to expect 
  • Intake visit, safety planning, school coordination, follow-ups.