It is important that we are mindful of how our actions affect others. Especially as a parent, we are constant role models. Our lifestyle behaviors and choices will ultimately shape our children. This can serve as a motivation to better care for ourselves, both mentally and physically.
Statistics show that 56% of American adults have had a drink in the past month, and 26.9% of those adults engaged in binge drinking (defined by five or more alcoholic drinks for men or four or more alcoholic drinks for women on one occasion). It is currently recommended to drink in moderation, meaning up to one drink for women and up to two drinks for men. Alcohol may have potential benefits in small amounts, but it is not recommended to drink just for this reason alone. Many adults drink in the home and around children, which can contribute to neglect and endangerment.
Last year, an interesting study was published in Psychological Medicine that found children who are given alcohol by their parents are more likely to be drinking full servings of alcohol by the time they are 15 or 16 years old. Researchers wanted to explore the impact on drinking habits when parents adopted a European-type model of allowing children to sip their alcoholic drinks.
The study showed that giving children alcohol increases their risk of drinking later, whether the alcohol is from parents or from other sources. Therefore, it is imperative that we monitor our own behavior and practice responsible drinking so we have a positive impact on our children’s decisions.
As parents, we can start talking about the dangers of drug and alcohol use as early as elementary school. Most kids have not begun to use alcohol, tobacco, or any other kind of drug, so we need to send clear messages.
- Talk with your child about the negative effects of alcohol and other drugs on their brains and bodies and their ability to learn and play sports.
- Provide guidance and clear rules about not using drugs.
- Teach your child different ways to say “No,” and prepare them ahead of time.
- If you do drink, do so in moderation.
- Never drive after drinking. Having a designated driver sends a very important message of safety and responsibility to children.
- Remember, children really do notice what their parents say and do!
