Kids are Watching: Model Responsibility
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. This is especially true when it comes to alcohol and modeling responsibility for future decision making.
Modeling responsibility looks like this:
If you choose to drink, always be responsible, and don’t hide it
Show that alcohol can be enjoyed responsibly by those of legal drinking age. Talk openly about the effects of alcohol, the importance of being mindful, and the legal drinking age. Explain why you make certain choices regarding alcohol and always be responsible. Mystifying alcohol consumption can lead kids to be curious to experiment, so hiding it may have a negative effect.
Never drive drunk
Always have a plan for a safe ride home if you plan to consume alcohol, such as using a designated driver, public transportation, or a ride-sharing service. Openly discuss the options for getting to and from a location safely, and make sure your kids know to NEVER get into a car with someone who may be drunk or impaired.
Watch your language
Be mindful of the language you use when choosing to drink by using phrases such as “I’m going to enjoy a cocktail” as opposed to “I need a drink.” You don’t want to set an example that alcohol is a means to cope with stress or negative emotions.
Model saying “NO” and respecting others’ decisions
Peer pressure doesn’t stop when you become an adult and if you choose not to drink, model appropriate refusal strategies and ways to say “NO.” It’s important to respect the values of others and uphold your own.
Demonstrate that fun does not have to include alcohol
Promote and engage in activities that do not involve alcohol, emphasizing that socializing and having fun do not require drinking.
Handle stress responsibly
Show healthy ways to cope with stress and emotions, such as exercising, talking things out, or engaging in hobbies. Invite kids or other friends to join you.
Address consequences
Discuss real-life examples and current events that highlight the consequences of irresponsible drinking, including health risks and legal issues.
Set clear expectations
Establish and communicate clear family rules about alcohol consumption, especially regarding the intolerance of underage drinking. When hosting a gathering, make sure that your guests know that you will never turn a blind eye to underage drinking and you expect them to do the same. There is no excuse for it, and the consequences can be life changing.
Lead responsibly
Make sure that other adults understand your stance on responsibility and your intolerance for serving or supplying alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age. Working together, parents can normalize that most kids don’t drink.
It is important to be aware that your kids are watching and your behavior can influence their actions when it comes to making future decisions about drinking. Keep these strategies in mind as you model responsible behavior and empower your kids to say “YES” to a healthy lifestyle and “NO” to underage drinking.