Start Talking was developed to give parents, guardians, educators, and community leaders the tools to start the conversation with Ohio’s youth about the importance of living healthy, drug-free lives. A majority of substance-free adolescents credit their parents for the decision not to use illegal substances. Likewise, teachers and other authority figures can have a similar influence on youth and their decision-making. Start Talking! asks Ohio’s schools to support this youth drug prevention initiative and help to build a drug-free future for Ohio’s students by utilizing the following resources: Parents360 Rx, Know! and 5 Minutes for Life.

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• Know!: Teachers are powerful influencers in their students’ lives. What is shared in the classroom can positively impact a child’s decision not to use alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or other drugs. TEACHable Moments are specially designed tips for educators, sent out by email twice a month for FREE, to help get those critical conversations started in the classroom.

• 5 Minutes for Life: Centers on Ohio State Troopers, Ohio National Guard members and local law enforcement talking for five minutes with student leaders, such as student-athletes, student council members, and band leaders before or after a practice or a meeting, about responsible decision-making, leadership and encouraging those in their peer group to live a drug-free lifestyle. This educational campaign aims to reduce and ultimately eliminate drug use among students.

• The Parents360: Action Toolkit is an easy-to-use tool you can utilize to share information with parents and other concerned citizens about the real dangers of medicine abuse and the actions that can be taken to prevent and respond to it.