About Drug Abuse in Elementary Schools

Childhood drug abuse is a worldwide problem. While different geographic locations are plagued more severely than others, children everywhere need to be warned and educated about the dangers of drug abuse.

Early Discussion

• According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), one of the keys to preventing childhood drug abuse is addressing the topic during a child's elementary school years.

Indications

• The NIDA reports that, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, elementary school children are abusing drugs as early as 12 and 13 years old. Drug abuse at this early age typically includes cigarettes, alcohol or inhalants.

Significance

• Based on the 2008 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 9.3 percent of youths aged 12 to 17 are illicit drug users. The earlier drug abuse begins, the more involved the abuse becomes as the child enters adolescence.

Misconceptions

• Some people believe that drug abuse is a teenage problem; however, drug abuse affects children in early adolescence. The 2008 NSDUH reports that illicit drug use by 12 to 13 year old adolescents was approximately 3.3 percent.

Prevention

• While drug abuse typically begins in middle school, programs aimed at keeping kids off of drugs are most effective when started in elementary school. The NIDA suggests that families with a strong bond, parental involvement in the child's life, and clear limits and consistent enforcement of discipline, provide protection from childhood drug abuse.