As a parent, you want to guide your child to the best of your ability. Unfortunately, some Michigan families deal with situations involving drugs. If your child was caught with drugs at school, these are the ways you can respond.
Talk to them and listen
Your first instinct might be to yell at your child upon discovering they were in possession of drugs. However, it’s best to approach the situation calmly and rationally. Talk to your child and really listen to them. The point is to get their side of the story to see what’s going on. It’s possible there was a misunderstanding or that your child is a victim of peer pressure.
Find out the school’s side, too
Learning about the school’s side of the story is crucial. If a school counselor is involved and has expressed concern, you may want to set up a meeting with them to discuss the situation. However, if you’re meeting with the principal or assistant principal or anyone in an authority position, chances are that they might want to suspend your child or, in the worst-case scenario, expel them.
Consider getting them help
If things have gone beyond a school suspension, your child might face juvenile drug crime charges. If you learn that your child has substance use disorder, you’ll want to protect their future, freedom and life. While you stick by them and offer your support and love, rehab treatment and mental health counseling might also be necessary to get to the root of the problem.
Finding out your child has any involvement in drugs is any parent’s nightmare. It’s up to you to take charge of the situation and do everything possible to help and support them.