Reducing Underage Drinking

What Every Parent Can Do!

            Since Memorial Day weekend is approaching, I thought it would be appropriate to write and informational blog on what parents can do to prevent their child/children from drinking not only this weekend but also in the future.

            Underage Drinking prevention starts in the home. To begin with, make sure that your children know what you your expectations are regarding underage alcohol use. Secondly, refuse to serve alcohol to underage children in your home or on your property. Also, make sure that alcohol is not available at events that your children are attending, don’t be afraid to call the parents or the hosts of the party. Lastly, think about where alcohol is kept in your home; make sure it is out of reach of your children.

            Another simple way of reducing underage drinking is to be a role model and demonstrate what responsible and legal drinking looks like. Also create opportunities for your children to have friends in your home, this way you can monitor the activities that are taking place.

            Children are less likely to drink if their parents actively involved with their daily activities, if their parents support a positive lifestyle, and if the children feel a sense of responsibility to others, such as their parents, school, and sports.

           

Statistics

1. The median age at which children begin drinking is 15.7 years of age.
2. 48% of high school seniors say they consumed alcohol in the past 30 days.