Adolescence is like learning how to drive. Teens need to get a "learner's permit" from parents to master the skills needed to become an adult. So what's the secret to raising kids who are able to navigate their world in a healthy, responsible way?

A large, long-term study of adolescents found that teens who are close to their parents are less likely to experiment with risky activities.

These findings are a clear signal that parents need to get to know their teen's friends, be involved in their child's academic and personal life, and know how their teens spend their free time.

Staying connected: six tips for parents
Here are some ways parents can build solid relationships with their teenagers:

1. Beware of the "danger zone." Research shows that kids are more likely to use drugs between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. So don't leave your children alone after school. Have your children take part in supervised after-school and summer activities because they are most vulnerable to using drugs when they are hanging out with nothing to do.
2. Be actively involved in your child's life. Establish special times during the week to do something with your children. Even sitting down for dinner together as a family each night can have a huge impact.
3. Be clear about rules and consequences. Many parents go out of their way to avoid conflicts with their teens. But part of being a parent is setting clear and consistent limits without feeling guilty or apologetic. Make sure your teen knows what to expect if boundaries are broken. Use disciplinary measures that relate to the task your teen failed to do.
4. Keep tabs on school performance. Know how your child is doing in school. Treat school as an opportunity for your teen to achieve his or her dreams. Teens learn skills in school that help them be successful members of society.
5. Start a dialogue about topics like drug and alcohol. It's important for you to tell your children often that you don't ever want them to use tobacco, alcohol or other drugs. Be sure to set a good example yourself. Use role-playing to help your child practice ways to refuse drugs. If you're a good listener and communicator, your child will feel more at ease to talk to you about drugs.
6. Be open and honest about sex and intimacy. Talk early and often about sex with your child. Don't just lock the door to protect your son or daughter from sexually transmitted diseases or an unwanted pregnancy. Research has shown that teens are more likely to discuss risks with their sexual partners and more likely to use condoms if their parents have talked to them about sex. Your teen may not be the one to start the dialogue. That's why it's important for parents to speak up first.

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External Sources Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Talking parents, healthy teens: a worksite-based program for parents to promote adolescent sexual health. Accessed July 9, 2008. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Add Health - The National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Accessed July 9, 2008. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Suspect your teen is using drugs or drinking? A brief guide to action for parents. Accessed July 9, 2008.

This article was reviewed and updated 08-01-2009.