Tough Topic: Talking About Drinking

Some subjects are definitely difficult for parents to talk about with their kids. But straightforward communication about the serious choices that kids will have to make has to happen and it needs to start much earlier than most parents think. Ages 9-11 are considered “prime time” for parents and other adult mentors to get their message across to kids.

The good news is that you don’t have to go it alone -- there’s lots of help available. Do a little research to find what fits with your family values and beliefs -- and start talking

Featured Topic
Get guidelines and resources for communicating with your kids about drinking in Sobering Conversations

Proof That Talking Works.
The percentage of high-school seniors who reported having a drink in the last 30 days is 13 percent lower in 2002 than in 1990 and down 29 percent since 1982, according to research conducted at the University of Michigan and sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the number of fatalities in teen drunk-driving crashes has dropped 38 percent since 1990 and 62 percent since 1982.

Articles Tools

Top