Plan and Protect

Written by Anne Auld, Deputy Director, Illuminate Colorado 

Parenting is hard, and using substances around children can make it even harder. When substance use gets in the way of providing the best care for your child, it’s important to have safety plans and practices in place. The good news is, you may already be doing some of these things! 

Taking Care of Children 

To ensure children are cared for, there are a few key factors to keep in mind.  

• Plan ahead with other trusted adults. Talk with children about who they can reach out to in an emergency, and practice calling them. When traveling, identify a safe driver.   

Reduce risks by talking with children and other trusted adults about how someone who is using a substance may act and signs to know when it’s time to reach out for help. Consider making a plan for children’s care in the aftermath of a caregiver’s substance use, too, when there may still be lingering effects of the substance impacting the caregiver’s mood. 

• Choosing a caregiver. Children of different ages have different needs. And choosing a caregiver who understands these needs and can respond appropriately is key. If you need alternate care for your child, consider someone who knows how to pick up on children’s cues — like when it is time for feeding, playing, or diaper changing. 

Practice it and share it! 

Storage 

Keeping substances out of reach of children is important and an easy step in creating a safer environment for your family. There are already things in our homes we store away from children, like cleaning products and chemicals. Substances, including alcohol, should be safely stored behind a locked cabinet door or in a lockbox. Children are very curious and determined! It isn’t enough to just put the item “out of reach.” 

Building Connections 

As a parent or caregiver, it’s also important to find ways to take care of yourself. One way is building healthy relationships with other adults who can help share the load. Look for some activities in your community like: 

• Peer-to-peer recovery groups 

• Parenting groups 

• Faith-based connections 

• Or, start a group in your neighborhood 

Having a strong support system around your children is another step you can take! Create ways for your child to build healthy relationships outside of the home. Check out your early childhood program, school, library, recreation center, or search for local events online for ideas. 

As your child’s first teacher, model asking for help, and help children practice asking for what they need. Learning how to ask for help is a lifelong skill. You are doing amazing things; keep them up!  

Practice it!