Our kids are always watching what we do. They see how we treat others. They observe how we handle stress. It’s easy to think they aren’t paying attention, but they are taking it all in, including our attitudes and behavior around medicine.

Modeling matters when it comes to your child’s ideas of safety regarding prescription and over-the-counter medication. From a very early age, they may be curious about medicine bottles in your home. You can demonstrate that medicine is something you only take when you’re sick, like when you have a fever or an earache.

As they grow older, avoid joking about or taking the use of any medication lightly, whether it’s over-the-counter cough medicine or anti-anxiety pills. Also, if you, a family member or anyone in your home is prescribed medications, call out how you’re using them as directed and safely dispose of expired or unwanted medication.

Learn more about how to address medication misuse

If you’re a health care professional or educator, there’s a role for you, too. Help protect your patients and students from the risks of medication misuse.

Resources for health care professionals

Resources for school professionals