Strong parent/child relationships provide a solid foundation for preventing youth substance use and nurturing good childhood mental health. It is well known that youth whose families maintain an open line of communication are more likely to seek advice from adults about difficult decisions, including experimentation with illegal substances.
To enhance the bond between parent and child, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is excited to announce a new Web site—A Family Guide To Keeping Youth Mentally Healthy & Drug Free. Available at http://family.samhsa.gov, the site offers adults who influence the lives of children ages 7 to 18—including parents, foster parents, grandparents, extended family members, guardians, and mentors—suggestions for better communication with children, as well as other tips that aid in prevention.
Based on the key principles of prevention within the family unit, articles are divided into six main topic areas:
A. Establish and maintain good communication with your child.
B. Get involved in your child’s life.
C. Make clear rules and enforce them with consistency and appropriate consequences.
D. Be a positive role model.
E. Teach your child to choose friends wisely.
F. Monitor your child’s activities.

A good education is an essential part to success. However, one must have a certain respect and administration for those who have made it without the benefit of the traditional university education. The culture that we call street has given birth to some of the most successful and insightful people in the world. Many of us would not have been here today if not for the skills and knowledge we acquired and dues we paid on the street. There is no replacement for the street sense and instinct. A people without a past shall never have a future.