Alcohol is still the drug of choice among Kansas youth. Too many start drinking very young, and the consequences can be devastating. Not just for teens, but for their families and communities.

The good news is there are many excellent resources for parents and others who want to help the young people they care about. The earlier you start the conversation the better. But no matter when you talk or what you say, you can make a difference. The whole community is affected by underage drinking. It's everyone's responsibility to raise safe kids.

Teaching children about alcohol and other drugs begins with learning healthy habits. The conversation changes and becomes more specific as they get older. According to a national study by the Partnership for a Drug Free America (PDFA) nearly 98 percent of parents say they've talked with their children about drugs; however, only 27 percent of teens (roughly one in four) say they're learning a lot at home about the risks of drugs. www.teenthinking.org

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