Power of Parents ® Middle School Handbook
Chapter 7
Research shows: Early alcohol use is linked to a higher risk of using multiple substances together, leading to greater harm.
What to Watch Out For
Impact on Child
Research Shows
Middle school is a critical time to reinforce expectations, as risk increases in high school. Regular check-ins help keep communication open. Research indicates that even small amounts of alcohol given by parents increase the likelihood of underage alcohol use. Delaying alcohol use until 21 significantly reduces the risk of long-term substance-related issues.
Peer pressure and exposure to alcohol or cannabis may increase as her son gets older.
Stronger social pressures can make it harder to say no.
Kids allowed to drink at home are more likely to drink more often and in larger amounts when unsupervised.
Allowing small amounts of alcohol at home may seem harmless but can backfire.
Setting clear expectations about alcohol and cannabis helps reduce future risks.
Kids with clear, enforced rules about substance use are less likely to experiment.
Key Takeaways
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Delaying alcohol use until after age 21 is crucial in reducing long-term risks, including combining substances. Allowing alcohol, on special occasions especially, can send the message that celebrations require alcohol.
Talking with your child consistently reduces the risk of substance misuse, even in high- pressure situations like parties.
Parents who drink less and avoid cannabis offer protective modeling that their children are likely to follow.
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