As a parent or guardian, talking about alcohol and its effects can help you start an early open and honest conversation with your teenager.
Choose the right time: Ask your child for a good time to chat. If you receive a negative response, Close it and try again but don't give up.
Try to be non-judgmental and calm: It is important to help your teen understand that you care about them and that you are there to learn what they know about alcohol, and you want to work with them to open this network. It is important to help you understand.
Talk and listen: Remember conversations should be two-way discussions that communicate back and forth, No advice and lecturing.
Take advantage of occasional learning opportunities: Share ideas and perspectives with your children. It may be helpful to discuss social and cultural contexts around alcohol consumption during family or community events where alcohol will be served. Discuss moderation, social responsibility, and the role of community norms in determining how much, how often, when, where, and how users of different substances usage.
Talk about adult alcohol consumption: In the event that if your teen makes reference that they have seen you drink and you appear all good, clarify that as an adult, you can settle on decisions that are lawful as well as educated. Explain that consuming alcohol irresponsibly or heavily can increase risk levels for their physical and emotional health.
Be firm about never driving impaired or being in a vehicle with an impaired driver: Explain that if your teen finds themselves in a position where they are uncomfortable about alcohol consumption at a party, or a friend’s house or an event they can call you anytime.
Express your concerns: Explain that your perspective of underage drinking might be different from theirs or their peers and you realize that whether to drink or not will ultimately be a choice they make but want them to be informed and to know that they can come to you if they have questions or concerns.
Thank your child for his honesty and openness: The teens are always delighted to hear from their parents that they are respected, trusted, and loved unconditionally
At the end of the day, you know the kids in your life better than anyone else. Understanding alcohol and understanding how to engage your pre-teen or teen in the conversation will help you keep those important lines of communication open so that your child can make their own healthy and responsible choices as they grow.
It's important to remind your adolescent or pre-teen that their body and their future belong to them and that you are there to speak with them about any concerns or issues they might have.
Resources:
Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines:(https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2019-04/2012-Canada-Low-Risk-Alcohol-Drinking-Guidelines-Brochure-en.pdf )
