Leading by Example: A Parent's Guide to Substance Use Prevention

This presentation explores the essential role parents play in preventing youth substance use and how they can serve as positive role models through their actions and conversations. We will discuss what responsible substance use looks like for adults, including alcohol, cannabis, nicotine, and medication use, as well as best practices for medication storage and disposal. Participants will also learn strategies for initiating open, nonjudgmental conversations with youth about substance use, peer pressure, and healthy decision-making.

This presentation is ideal for parents of middle and high school students who want to strengthen communication, build trust, and create a supportive environment that promotes healthy choices and long-term well-being. Participants will also receive free prevention resources, including locking medication bags and Deterra® at-home medication disposal kits.

Natalie Larson is the Coalition Coordinator for the Knowledge Empowers Youth (KEY) Coalition at PEER Services, where she has led youth substance use prevention efforts in New Trier Township, Illinois since April 2025. Using evidence-based prevention strategies, she works to address both individual and community-level factors that influence substance use. Her background in mental health research, advocacy, and community engagement informs her current work advancing evidence-based substance use prevention and youth wellness initiatives. Natalie earned a B.A. in Biology and Psychology from Northwestern University.