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Talking Points

Keep in mind underage drinking, and substance use poses unique risks to young people. Parents are encouraged to set family rules and consequences concerning underage drinking and drug use.

Use these tips to help guide these conversations.

Take Action

  • Be specific and don’t bend the rules when it comes to alcohol and other drugs.
  • Learn about the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs on youth and make sure all the adults in your house are also aware and on the same page.
  • Establish a “no drug use” rule for your kids, including alcohol. Explain the consequences of breaking these rules and follow through if a rule is broken.

4 Communication Tips

  • Be Clear

    Be clear and focus on the risks of alcohol use on your child’s health and safety. Let your child know you love them and don’t want anything bad to happen to them.

  • Take a Stand

    Let your child know you disapprove of any drug/alcohol use – children who believe their parents will be upset if they try drugs are less likely to do so.

  • Opportunities

    Use “teachable moments” to raise alcohol issues. Use public service announcements, stories on the news, TV plotlines, pop culture, or current topics at school or in the community to spur on conversation.

  • Talk Often

    Frequently talk AND LISTEN to your child about how things are going in their life. Try to find time to talk and connect with your child every day.

Start the Conversation Early and Keep on Talking

Elementary School Years

It may seem too early to talk about alcohol and drugs with elementary-aged children, but don’t put off age-appropriate conversations about substance misuse until middle or high school. Developing a close relationship and setting boundaries with your child early on will make it easier to enforce rules later.

Middle School Years

Even though your child may tell you otherwise, what you say does influence their life.
Research shows that parents have more influence over their child than friends, music, TV, the Internet, and celebrities.
Use these tips to help start, and continue, the conversation.

High School Years

As high school students grow up, many parents underestimate the harms and dangers of underage drinking or drug use. As a result, more kids use it. The research shows that teens still care what their parents think. Express how concerned you are for their safety and the disappointment you would feel if they were to use alcohol or other drugs.

College Years

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