It’s time to head back to school! Today, kids in the Washington DC area are trudging back to school. A whole bunch of kids have already headed back, while millions more will do so soon.

There are many ways to get your kid ready – school supplies, clothes, perhaps a lunchbox. Telling your kid to study hard, and the importance of education – you can’t forget that.

But another important way to get your kid ready is to talk about alcohol. Transition periods- such as new environments, new people, and new circumstances – are times where kids are very vulnerable to trying alcohol.

Since a new school year is often such a transition, you should make sure to talk to your teen about the dangers of alcohol (PDF), ways to say no to alcohol, and ways to stay busy and active. Help make sure that your kid’s school year will be an opportunity for growth and learning.