Parent Prevention
As a parent it is easy to feel helpless when it comes to your child and alcohol. Many parents are unaware of the efforts they can make to help prevent their child from experimenting with alcohol underage or forming dangerous drinking habits. Studies show that parents are the major influence on their child’s relationship with alcohol. Here are some suggestions on how to help prevent your child from drinking underage.
- Building Self-Esteem
- Many times alcohol is viewed as a stress relief. Young people feel that it brings them confidence and makes them forget about the worry and problems in life. Parents are given the important role of helping to build confidence and resilience as part of a young person’s self-esteem.
- Even if you’re not happy about their behavior remind them that you always love them.
- Let them fail but help them recognize that they can overcome difficulties in life.
- Recognize and applaud them when they try hard and always encourage them to do their best.
- Keeping that ‘can do’ attitude by encouraging strong relationships with family and friends.
- Listen and respect them.
- Many times alcohol is viewed as a stress relief. Young people feel that it brings them confidence and makes them forget about the worry and problems in life. Parents are given the important role of helping to build confidence and resilience as part of a young person’s self-esteem.
- Monkey See. Monkey Do
- 74% of teens say that their parents are the leading influence when it comes to alcohol and drinking. So look at your own approach to alcohol. Children are like super absorbent sponges; they do as their parents do. If you drink more often than not then it could be setting a bad example and be bad for your health.
- Rules & Regulations
- Make sure to set clear boundaries around alcohol with your child. Teenagers may find that there is no point in setting rules or boundaries, but studies show that when a teen knows that there parent disapproves of something such as alcohol, then they are less likely to take on that behavior. If you talk through the expectations and agree on the boundaries then your child will be more likely to follow these rules. It can also be useful for them to get out of uncomfortable situations with friends.
- Help Them Say ‘NO’
- Many young people do not recognize that just because they say no to something doesn’t mean that you are rejecting an individual or being rude to them. Every individual should feel comfortable enough to make their own decision. Peer pressure can come in many different forms, and it is important for teens to understand and use their voice when they feel uncomfortable.
- Stay Busy
- Many times drinking is a result of friends getting together with no other activities available to them, so they get bored and find interest in consuming alcohol. Keep your child busy or interested with other activities. Help them stay busy, encourage them to stay in touch with friends or taking part in a sport. With activities available keeping them busy, teens won’t have time to be bored!