Parent to Parent: Drug free kids

Students of all ages face peer pressure to try drugs and alcohol. That's especially true in high school, but parents, you can take steps to keep your kids drug free.

Lindsay Lohan busted with cocaine, Nicole Richie jailed for drunk driving, and Britney Spears in and out of rehab.

These are the celebrities your kids look up to, and local drug counselors say, parents, heads up- drugs are still a problem for kids.

Laurie Crosby, drug counselor
"Whether it's from their family or dealing with the changes going on within themselves, within their bodies, changing schools, and it's definitely still a huge problem."

Binge drinking and prescription drug abuse are on the rise.

Laurie Crosby, drug counselor
"Because of the access that kids are getting from their parents and their families and their friends."

Most parents don't even find out until it's too late, but there are warning signs to look for.

If your child's grades suddenly drop, if he or she starts acting distant from family and friends. Also look for changes in eating and sleeping habits and sudden mood swings.

Laurie Crosby, drug counselor
"They become very snappy with their judgments, and they become very angry. Those are really key warning signs."

Parents, you don't have to be a snoop, but you should check up on your child. Talk to their school. Find out if they are late or absent, and get to know your child's friends, even on the Internet.

Laurie Crosby, drug counselor
"The computer is definitely an outlet for a lot of kids, a lot of kids spending hours upon hours, and it's always good to know who their friends are and who their friends are through Myspace.com.

And if you suspect something, don't be afraid to confront your child and try to talk to them about it.

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