As winter begins, we’re reminded of the simple joys of childhood. And one of our favorites is building a snowman. What starts as a single snowball can grow into something much bigger—a perfect metaphor for how we can build the foundations of meaningful conversations.

October 23-31 is Red Ribbon Week, and we want to shine a spotlight on what’s working to keep kids alcohol- and substance-free. Alcohol consumption among America’s teens is at or near record low levels, so this Red Ribbon Week we want to encourage you to keep doing these 5 things, because what you’re doing is working!

Jessica Matheson, 2022 SHAPE America National Health Education Teacher of the Year, provide some practical tips that will help you stay optimistic and forward thinking throughout the school year.

It’s time to get kids back to school! Helping your kids transition from their “summer-selves” to their “student-selves” involves using their summer experiences to shape the ways they move forward.

Parents are the number one influence on their kids’ decision to drink—or not drink—alcohol, and this influence goes beyond just having those important conversations about the dangers of underage drinking. As kids develop and learn to make decisions for themselves, what they see from parents, caregivers, and other trusted adults matters. Explore these ways to model responsibility with your kids if you choose to drink.

Whether on a road trip or running errands, there’s something different about conversations with your kids that happen in the car. Here are some tried-and-true strategies for car talks with your kids.

This Fourth of July, don’t just spark fireworks, but also spark short and meaningful conversations about celebrating responsibly with your kids.

Even though school may be out for the summer, the teaching and learning continues, especially when it comes to lessons on responsibility. This summer assign yourself some homework to continue conversations with your kids about making responsible choices because when kids are empowered, they’re more likely to say “YES” to a healthy lifestyle and “NO” to underage drinking.

As parents and educators, it’s our responsibility to help kids feel energized, optimistic, and excited to say “YES.” Here are a few things that kids can say “YES” to as we make our way into the final weeks of school and prepare for summer.

April is Alcohol Responsibility Month, and it is the perfect time to emphasize good decision-making skills with your kids.