ALCOHOL & UNDERAGE DRINKING
RESOURCES
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
An American Addiction Centers Resources
Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
Talking to Your Kids
One of the most important factors in healthy childhood development is a strong and open relationship with the parent. It is important to start talking to your children about alcohol and other drugs before they are exposed to them- as early as 9 years old!
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Unsure of where to start? Below are 5 talking points to help guide your conversation with your child about the risks of underaged drinking. And remember: Keep it low-key. Don't worry about having to get everything across in one talk. Plan to have many short talks, keeping the topic fresh in your kid's mind.
Provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
1) Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse
Over 80 percent of young people aged 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. Send a clear and strong message that you disapprove of underaged drinking and use or misuse of other drugs.
2) Show you care about your child's health, wellness, and success
Young people are more likely to listen when they know you're on their side. Reinforce why you don't want your child to drink or use other drugs- because you want your child happy and safe. The conversation will go a lot better if you're open and show concern.
3) Show you're a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs
You want your child to make informed decisions about alcohol and other drugs with reliable information about its dangers. You don't want your child to learn about alcohol and drugs from unreliable resources. Establish yourself as a trustworthy source of information.
4) Show you're paying attention and you'll discourage risky behaviors
Show you're aware of what your child is up to, as young people are more likely to drink or use other drugs if they think no one will notice. Do this in a subtle way, without prying.
5) Build your child's skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use
Even if you don't think your child wants to drink or try other drugs, peer pressure is a powerful thing. Having a plan to avoid alcohol and drug use can help children make better choices. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to family members or practicing how they'll say "no thanks."
Provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Dangers and Risks of Underage Drinking
Information Courtesy of DrinkAware UK