Have Your Answers Ready

It may sound silly to practice conversations, but being prepared helps you anticipate the unexpected. Thinking of answers to likely questions can give you an excellent foundation for meaningful talks with your kids. Some questions they may ask include:

• Did you drink when you were my age?
• But, you drink…
• But, _______________ (brother, sister, cousin, aunt, uncle, friend, etc.) does it…
• I know lots of people who drink and nothing bad has happened to them…
• Why is it okay for you (brother, sister, cousin, aunt, uncle, friend, etc.) to drink and not me?
• I’m old enough to drive (vote, serve in the army); I'm old enough for a beer…
• Don’t you trust me to know how much I can handle?
• What do I say if my friends ask me if I want a drink?