BOTTOM LINE Adults may hold beliefs and have thoughts that simply do not exist for youth because their brains are still developing. Help your child develop better thinking skills by talking together about the short-term and long-term consequences of alcohol use, even if he or she shows little interest. It is never too soon. Remember, your child may be beginning to look and act like an adult, but they are still depending on you to help them make good and healthy choices. Their brain is focused on what is happening right now, basing decisions on immediate emotions rather than what consequences may happen in the future.
They are listening…what are you saying?
Download MADD’s parent handbook at madd.org/ powerofparents for more tips and strategies for having critical conversations with your child around alcohol and other drugs.
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