Starting a Conversation with your Teen

If you’re looking for a way to help kids and teens steer clear of drinking, one of the best things you can do is talk to them, early! Resist the urge to lecture.

DO:

• Set clear rules about drinking.
• Set a good example. If you drink, drink responsibly.
• Teach them healthy ways of dealing with stress.
• Encourage them to join in extracurricular activities.

DON’T:

• Don’t lecture.
• Don’t assume that one talk is enough.
• Don’t wait until you catch kids drinking to think of a punishment.
• Don’t ignore your instincts. If you suspect that a kid is drinking, talk to them.
• Don’t let them drink in your home. Social hosting is illegal. “Parents who host, lose the most!”

Refusal Tips for kids: Its not always easy for a teen to keep their cool in the face of peer pressure. Give them a few suggestions on how to say “NO” like:

• “Sorry, I have to drive tonight.”
• “No way. My Mom/Dad will kill me if I come home smelling like alcohol.”