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Talking To Your Teen About Alcohol
Alcohol is the number one drug used by teenagers and a leading cause of death for
that demographic (resulting frequently in alcohol-related car accidents, suicides, homicides, drownings, etc.). Most teens have at least tried alcohol--out of curiosity or to feel included--and as a result, many become heavy drinkers or try other drugs. Teens drink alcohol to escape stress, because it's accessible, and because it feels good, among other reasons. While drug and alcohol awareness programs at school can help deter teens from experimenting with alcohol, the best prevention comes at home. Talk to your teen today about alcohol; it may save his or her life.Beginning at an early age, clearly delineate to your children your family's rules about using alcohol, and give reasons for these rules. Explain the dangerous repercussions of using alcohol and cite any religious, family, social, or personal values as further reasons not to drink. Express on a regular basis how you feel about underage drinking. Institute and enforce consequences for breaking the rules you have established; however, do not yell at, lecture, or threaten teenagers, as this may only encourage them to rebel. Be very firm about drinking and driving in particular.
Inform your teen that you will not tolerate his or her drunk driving or riding with someone who has been drinking. If a situation arises where the teen needs a ride home or has been drinking, tell him or her to call you for a ride, ask permission to stay the night, or pay for a taxi. Be clear that you are not condoning alcohol consumption but that your child's safety is your primary concern. Of course, you as a parent are the role model. Don't drink in front of your teen, and if you do have alcohol in the house, keep it locked up. Never serve it to your teen or his or her friends. Lead by example if you want your child to listen to you.
In addition to setting up rules and consequences, talk to your teen about dealing with pressure to drink. Teach him or her ways to say no and suggest alternative (aka safe) plans. You want your child to be honest and comfortable with you, so don't punish him or her for opening up. Listen to your teen's concerns and opinions with respect so that he or she will continue to come to you for advice.
Get to know your kid's friends and their parents. Know what they're up to, and encourage your teen (and his or her friends) to get involved in extracurricular activities: they could get a part-time job, volunteer, take music or art lessons, participate in church groups, join a club or team, etc. If teens have interests elsewhere, they may not feel as enticed to drink.
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