Preventing teen alcohol abuse (1124)

The American Council on Drug Education reports one hundred thousand elementary school children get drunk at least once a week. One out of ten 12 - 13 year olds currently drinks alcoholic beverages. As early as fourth grade, one out of three children reports pressure from classmates to try wine coolers.

As students get older, the reported use of alcohol increases dramatically. Fifty-four percent of eighth graders consumed alcohol during the year. Thirteen percent of eighth graders binge-drink. Seven out of ten high school seniors report drinking.

Parents can play a major role in preventing teenage alcohol use. There are a number of things you can do at home and in the community to prevent or reduce teen alcohol use.

At home, be available when your teen needs you for support and information. Express an interest in all your teen's school and extra-curricular activities. Encourage your teen to participate in extra-curricular activities, religious and other youth groups, and other opportunities for using free time constructively. Support your teen's academic progress and accomplishments; help her set goals for her future. In general, keep track of where your kids are, who they are with, and how they spend their time.

It is important to involve your teen in discussions to establish rules with regard to curfews, social activities, and dating. Don't assume kids know what is on your mind. Use "I messages" to communicate your feelings, opinions and concerns without blaming, preaching or putting them down. Be prepared to listen to their viewpoints as well.

In the community, get to know other teens, and find out whether there's a way to get involved in local efforts to provide adult support for teens who need it. Get to know your teen's friends, and volunteer when adults are needed to help with school, religious and other community youth events. Support other parents' efforts to monitor peer group activities; alert other parents when you have reason to believe their kids are engaging in unacceptable behavior. Let other parents know you do not condone underage drinking at parties, call parents to see if they will be present when parties are hosted in their homes, and support social and community activities that provide alternatives to drinking.

Finally, look for opportunities to meet with parents for support as well as to keep informed about youth issues, community norms and standards, and other parenting concerns. Work with one another to set standards for what is acceptable teen behavior in the community, as well as to encourage community-wide efforts aimed at preventing teenage alcohol use and abuse.

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