Start with the Facts
Parents are the #1 influence on their kids’ decisions to drink–or not to drink–alcohol, and data shows that parent-tween conversations matter. But there’s no need to dumb it down – your kids are smart so stick to the facts!
Make sure YOU know the facts
Kids are listening, so it’s important to know the facts about alcohol and underage drinking so your conversations–whether they are planned or spontaneous–are based in facts, not scare tactics and say more than “because I said so.” Here are some good ones to start with:
- “Everyone does it” is not true. 67% of teens have never consumed alcohol in their lifetime, and among 8th graders, 82% have never consumed alcohol (Monitoring the Future, 2024).
- Alcohol affects kids differently than adults since their brains and bodies are still developing.
- People who begin drinking before age 15 are more likely to develop an alcohol use disorder late in life compared to those who don’t drink before or after they are 21 (SAMHSA).
Make sure THEY know the facts
No kid wants to sit through a lecture, but armed with the facts, you can impart these four important facts to your tweens when you speak with them to help keep them alcohol-free.
- It’s illegal to drink before the age of 21.
- Alcohol harms growing brains and bodies.
- Most teens do not drink.
- You love them and value their safety.
In the past year 94% of parents report they have spoken to their kids at least once in the past year about the dangers of underage drinking, and underage drinking rates are at record low levels. If you have not had a conversation yet—today is a great day to start. And if you have, know that the conversations you’re having are working. You’re doing a great job, so don’t underestimate yourself!
-The Ask, Listen, Learn Team