Fall sports have started. If you’re like me, you went through the equipment checklist, filled out the mandatory school forms, noted practice times and game times on your calendar, set up a car pool, and hope you didn’t forget anything.

But what else do you need to think about to best parent your high school athlete?

Developmentally, high schools students go through tremendous change physically, intellectually and emotionally. High school student-athletes go through all the same changes and then some. Parenting a student-athlete can be easier if you equip yourself with good information.

One topic that is not often discussed openly is drug and alcohol use in high school. Athletes in our school sign a commitment policy that enforces strict “just say no” guidelines. We know from experience (remember Nancy Reagan) this simple solution is not enough. How can we help our teens stay healthy and avoid the lure of drugs and alcohol?

Good information is key. Time to Talk is an excellent resource for parents. It covers all types of drugs (including steroids) and alcohol and helps parents get the education they need to start discussions with their teens.

We are in it together.