Our research shows that when conversations between parents and kids about alcohol go up, underage drinking rates go down.
Since 2003, conversations between parents and kids have increased 31%. During that same period, current rates of underage drinking have decreased by 57%.
Initiating conversations with children—no matter their age—about alcohol is a crucial aspect of parenting that can significantly influence kids’ understanding and attitudes towards drinking in the future–and making the decision to say “NO” to underage drinking now. By addressing this topic openly and honestly, parents, caregivers, and other trusted adults can provide kids with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions and resist peer pressure.
These discussions offer an opportunity to explain the risks and consequences associated with alcohol consumption, as well as to establish clear family expectations and values. Starting these conversations early and revisiting them regularly helps to foster a trusting relationship, ensuring that children feel comfortable seeking guidance and support as they navigate social situations involving alcohol.
Conversations starters may include:
Using relevant articles about other teens:
“I read an article about teens and alcohol recently. What have you heard about drinking from your friends or at school?”
Addressing current events:
“I saw that XYZ was in the news for public intoxication. Did you see that? What do you think will happen next?”
Role play:
“When you go to the dance tonight, let’s pretend someone offers you a ride home, but you know they snuck a few drinks. What would you say?”
Show and tell:
“I found some pictures of when I was younger. Times sure were different then. Can we look at them together?”
Kids need to hear consistently and decidedly that underage drinking is illegal, irresponsible and unsafe. And that underage drinking and drunk driving are both illegal and dangerous. Let your kids know:
- You can call me if you need to get out of any uncomfortable situation.
- Set up a code word or a text signal as a sign they are in a difficult situation
- Install a rideshare app on their mobile phone
- Practice ways to say “NO”
- Alcohol negatively affects the developing brain and can cause short- and long-term damage.
- It is never OK to get into a car with anyone who is drunk or impaired.
Our content creation team, both past and present, have discussed every topic from the first time you’re caught off guard when your kids might ask “can I have a sip of that?” to when they’re faced with peer pressure as tweens or teens. These stages of parenting are nuanced, and each parent has their own take for their own family. Read their stories to prevent underage drinking.
Parents are the #1 influence on their kids’ decisions to drink—or not drink—alcohol. Open lines of communication are important as kids get older and may have more questions. The Ask, Listen, Learn underage drinking prevention program offers additional suggestions on how parents can break the ice with kids to keep conversations flowing.