Parents are the most important role models in keeping young people drug free.That was the message resonating at the second annual conference of Today's Child, the only national magazine dedicated to addressing parenting from the perspective of African Americans and families of color.

The Campaign co-sponsored the conference which brought together health care providers, educators, community leaders and parents, and provided information and advice on substance abuse prevention and parenting skills.

Dr. Jeffrey Gardere, noted psychologist and author, spoke about parents' roles in prevention. "The things you say and do leave a remarkable impression on your child's self-image," said Dr. Gardere. "A strong sense of ‘self' can give a child the confidence and discipline to resist drugs."

Phil Davis, creator and developer of a drug-prevention game, led participants through scenarios used in the board game to help them experience the feelings and emotions associated with making good and bad decisions about drugs.

Today's Child featured parenting tips and highlights of the conference in its April issue.