Positively engage and set boundaries for your kids.

The way that parents interact with their children plays an important role in how they craft conversations about alcohol and, ultimately, how well children follow their rules and advice.

Encouragement and warmth combined with appropriate discipline helps parents set boundaries that children respect and understand. Children raised with both clear rules and loving support tend to be able to make better decisions. They’re more likely to look to parents for guidance as threatening situations come up in their lives.1

Think about your style of parenting as you review the important information about underage drinking and find an approach that works best for you and your child.

To learn more about different parenting styles and approaches, visit the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.


1National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (U.S.), “Parenting to Prevent Childhood Alcohol Use,” National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, last modified February 2017.

Boy blows candle on birthday cake with his 2 friends.

1 in 3 Kids have tried alcohol by age 8

By age 12, the number of kids who have tried alcohol increases to 2 in 3.

Tip: The earlier you start talking to your child about alcohol, the better. Early engagement can help your child avoid future problems with alcohol.

Dear Parent

Have a plan in place to help your child bail from peer pressure situations to try alcohol. Be their safe harbor.