Alcohol is the most commonly used and misused drug among youth. Some report taking their first drink at age 10 or younger.
For this reason, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents begin talking to children about alcohol at age 9 to establish a foundation for healthy habits and influence ideas about alcohol early instead of trying to change impressions later. It's best to connect with kids often through natural conversations that will evolve as your child gets older.
Research continues to prove that kids who have conversations with their parents about the dangers of alcohol and drug use are 50% less likely to use alcohol and drugs than those who don't. That's reason enough to keep the lines of communication flowing with your kids from an early age on.
Prevention experts at the Partnership to End Addiction share answers to frequent questions from parents and impart tips on how to talk to children about alcohol and other drugs from every age from pre-school to young adult.
Sample Q & A:
Q: Isn't it better for parents to teach children how to drink 'responsibly' by allowing them to drink at home under supervision?
A: Research shows that drinking at home with parental approval is associated with higher-risk drinking, heavy alcohol use, and alcohol problems later in life. Allowing kids to drink in the home sends mixed messages about the safety of underage alcohol use.
Q: Is it hypocritical of me to tell my kids not to drink when they know that I drank at their age?
A: As a parent, you want to do all you can to protect your child. Many of us didn't wear sunscreen growing up, we now know that it significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer. Same is true of alcohol - now we know more than ever about protecting our kids from the effects of alcohol.
Learn more by visiting The Partnership to End Addiction:
