Tips for Parents

As a parent, it is so easy to feel overwhelmed by the issues around underage drinking. There are laws to keep track of and risks to the youth who use. It can be hard to know how and when to talk about it. Click here for an easy, two-page pamphlet that includes information about all of this. There is a lot of good help in here to get that smile back on your face! You can even print a copy if you want of Tips for Parents.

Some highlights from the pamphlet:

According to the National Institute on Alchohol Abuse and Alchoholism (NIAAA), these tips work.

• Open, trusting communication is essential
• If your child feels comfortable talking openly with you, you have a greater chance of guiding him/her toward healthy decision making.
• Encourage conversation. Listen without interruption.
• Ask open-ended questions. How does he/she feel about what you're discussing?
• Control your emotions. Try not to respond with anger, instead , "I'm concerned..."
• Make every conversation a "win-win" experience. Don't lecture; show respect for their viewpoint.

For more information including information on drinking laws, zero tolerance and information on alchohol's effects, please download our pdf on Tips For Parents.