How to Help Prevent or Reduce Teenage Drinking
- 1). Speak to teenagers about alcohol. A parent must sit down with her child and explain the ramifications of drinking, including health risks such as alcohol poisoning. A child needs to know all the facts. The parent must speak about this before issues arise with the child, not after.
- 2). Invite the teenager's friends over. A parent needs to know the friends of her children, and must do everything to stay involved in the child's life. Suggest a sleepover with a few friends. If you don't like some of the friends, let your child know in a calm manner. Forbidding the friendship may cause your child to sneak behind your back. Be observant and watchful at all times, and get to know the friends and their parents.
- 3). Drink infrequently around teenagers. A parent has a duty to exhibit proper behavior around her children, thus teaching them to grow up to be responsible adults. A teenager who constantly sees a parent drinking may feel that is acceptable behavior and may begin to mimic the behavior.
- 4). Spend quality time with children. Plan a night to watch movies together. This is a chance to connect with the children in a healthy way. The teenager may feel more relaxed and able to open up about concerns she may have in school or with friends.
- 5). Encourage teenagers to be active. Playing sports can be beneficial to a child's well-being. According to a new study by Dr. Keith Zullig and Rebecca White from West Virginia University, middle-school teenagers who are physically active and play on sports teams are more satisfied with their life and feel healthier.
- 6). Give positive reinforcement. A teenager needs to know when he is doing a good job, whether at home or at school. A child needs parental approval.
- 7). Show love. Children and teenagers crave a parent's love and attention. Never forget to tell the child how much she is loved and wanted.
