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One of the big decisions your child may face, even at this age, is how to say no to alcohol. The statistics make it clear that your involvement is essential. Why? Government data shows that underage drinking continues to be a troubling issue:
About 10.7 million Americans aged 12 to 20-almost a third of underage kids-say they consume alcohol, according to the 2003 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
That same study found that older teens are more likely to drink: 36 percent by the time they're 17.
Make no mistake: Tweens know what's going on, and they're more than just a little curious about it. So before they're presented with the opportunity, it's critical to give them the information they need to make the right decision.
"They see it as something exciting," explains Anthony Wolf, a clinical psychologist and author of Get Out of My Life, But First Could You Drive Me and Cheryl to the Mall? "Alcohol is forbidden, a little dangerous. It's a new experience. They're at an age where they think they're prepared to take more risks. They have an internal mandate not to see themselves as little kids."
Not all kids take such risks, of course. But fitting in with their peers is becoming paramount. As your budding adolescent gets older, the chances that she'll be exposed to alcohol increase. What to do?
- Give her the information and support she needs to avoid it. Right now she's developing her self-image and long-term habits, so you want her to feel positive about herself and make healthy choices.
- Let her know she can talk to you about anything. When she does, try to Ask, Listen, Learn.
- Give her lots of love and praise.
- Plan family activities.
- Make sure she's not left bored and unattended.
Not all kids take such risks, of course. But fitting in with their peers is becoming paramount. As your budding adolescent gets older, the chances that she'll be exposed to alcohol increase. What to do?
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