When is the Best Time to Talk to Teenagers about Alcohol? RIGHT NOW.

Information for Parents

Underage alcohol access is a national problem and a priority issue for parents, law enforcement, government officials, the safety and business communities. Yet of all these committed groups, one stands alone as having the best chance of making a difference in the lives of children: you.

Research shows kids really do listen to their parents more than it may appear. The question is, are you talking? If so, what are you saying? "Thank goodness they were 'only' drinking." We hear that frequently from parents and guardians. While alcohol is legal for adults, it is important to remember teens lack the maturity, judgment and coping skills to handle alcohol.

According to the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism:

  • Alcohol-related traffic crashes are a major cause of death among teens. Alcohol use is also linked with youthful deaths by drowning, homicide and suicide.
  • Teens who drink are more likely to have problems with school work and school conduct.
  • 3 out of 10 high school students admit to binge drinking.
  • An individual who begins drinking as a young teen is four times more likely to develop alcohol dependence than someone who waits until adulthood to use alcohol.

What can you do?

Lead by example!

Whether you are aware of it or not, your child learns more by your actions than by your words alone. Be a good role model by drinking responsibly and using a designated driver. Supervise your children and let them know you are there for them. Disapprove of underage drinking — don't condone or enable it.

Start talking!

Developing open communication with your teen is one of the best ways of helping your child avoid alcohol use. If your teen feels comfortable enough to speak openly with you, you’ll have a much better chance of guiding him or her toward smart decision-making.

Where to begin?

The subject of alcohol is not an easy one to bring up with your children. Your teen may be reluctant to speak to you at first, and may try to avoid the discussion. Here are some helpful tips:

  • It's a conversation, not a lecture: Choose a time when both you and your child have some down time and the conversation can be leisurely and relaxed.
  • Ask their opinion and listen: Ask your children what they know about alcohol and what their opinions are on teen drinking. Listen carefully without interrupting. Let your child know his or her opinion is important to you. Control your emotions: If you hear something upsetting, try not to respond with anger. Try to communicate your feelings to your child in a constructive manner.
  • Set clear-cut rules: Let your teens know what is expected of them. Establish appropriate consequences for breaking rules and make certain you reinforce them.
  • Offer acceptance and respect: Make certain your teen knows you are proud of his or her efforts as well as accomplishments. Acknowledge that your child will soon be an adult. This doesn’t mean they no longer need guidance and supervision; however, do tell them you are going to make an effort to respect his or her need for some independence and privacy.
  • Talk about the Internet: A recent survey of minors aged 14-20 reveals that 75 percent say their parents aren't able to control what they do on the Internet. Discuss the various uses of the Internet, both positive and negative. Reinforce the fact that you want to trust your child while he or she is using a computer; however, do remind them that certain purchases or activities are illegal — and potentially deadly — and that if they break the rules they will have to pay the consequences.
  • Be aware and take appropriate actions: Recognize problem behavior and seek help when necessary.

For further parental resources to help reduce underage drinking, please visit http://www.centurycouncil.org/

Also of interest, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy launched in 2006 the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign’s “Teens and Technology,” which educates parents on how they can monitor teens’ digital activities to avoid the threat of online pro-drug influences, especially prescription drugs that are available over the Internet. For more information and resources, please visit www.theantidrug.com.