If You Choose to Drink.

It’s important for your child to understand that drinking is an adult choice that comes with responsibilities and that underage drinking is simply not an option. Without a firm understanding that there are things that are all right for adults but not for teens, your kids may feel they are getting mixed signals from you or other family members who drink alcohol.

• Let your teen know why adults may choose to drink:

  Adults of different backgrounds choose to drink alcohol for different reasons. If done in moderation, alcohol can pose little risk for many adults^*.

• Practice low-risk drinking habits:

  Model low-risk drinking behavior, such as never drinking and driving, drinking within limits and limiting the amount of days you drink.

• Point out differences between adult and underage drinking:

  Remember the facts. Alcohol impacts the teen brain much more than an adult's. Alcohol also has legal and behavioral consequences for teens that are not present for adults.

• Encourage your kids to let you know if they’re uncomfortable with your drinking.

*Some adults are recommended they not drink at all, for example:

• Those who have a family history of alcoholism as they have a higher chance of having problems with alcohol themselves
• Women who are trying to have a baby or who are pregnant
• People who plan to or need to drive or who operate heavy machinery
• Those who can’t restrict themselves to moderate drinking
• People using medications