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Here is a short list of suggestions:
Getting started - let the subject arise naturally. It the subject does arise take the advantage to discuss it but never start it 'cold'
Don't lecture - make it an open discussion, otherwise the 'kids' will turn off.
Getting the message Across - It's not a big deal - play down the importance, fun or excitement of drinking. Set a good example but don't give the impression that not drinking is odd.
Balance the good with the bad - If you explain the good points as to why people enjoy drinking, don't forget the other side.
Don't use scare tactics or be dramatic in your explanations.
Good and bad points
Good
| Bad
| It relaxes you
| Can lose control
| Being sociable
| Act silly or stupid
| Enjoyable
| End up taking risks
| Have a good time
| Wastes money
|
Be consistent - If you drink with no side effects remember stressing the dangers can leave a child confused, and could lead them into drinking secretively.
Speak plainly - Children need to relate to the explanations about the bad side of drinking. Telling them about liver disease, something they cannot comprehend is useless. Getting ill, falling over, being sick, being nasty, having accidents and behaving stupidly are easier actions for children to understand and imagine.
Be a role model - Remember you are the parent, the child's first teacher, so set an example. Children watch, learn and mimic. If you drink too much and behave badly the chances are your kids will end up not liking you.
Experiencing alcohol - Be natural about it, if you drink in the home. Let children have a taste, if they ask. It's better to supervise what they drink than have them do it secretively behind your back. Encourage them to be honest about alcohol.
Other Points:
Peer Pressure - One of the strongest influences to affect children as they grow older comes through Peer pressure. How you react to the one occasion when something goes wrong can affect your child's future attitudes. Drinking with other kids away from home will probably happen at least once. Stay calm, don't over react and discuss it with them.
Are you worried that your child's drinking?
In general young people who do drink learn to do it sensibly. There may be the 'odd' accident on the way but overall they learn moderation.
However there will always be those who cause concern. If you can resolve the problem within the family, calmly and rationally then there's no reason to involve outsiders. However if you cannot reach some agreeable goal then there are plenty of agencies who will be able to help.
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Author: Ann Brady
Copyright www.exercise.co.uk
2001
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Copyright Exercise, Fitness & Leisure 2001
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