Talk to your child early about alcohol

Early alcohol use is linked to:

• problems with school work,
• difficulties focusing on tasks,
• problems with alcohol later in life,
• depression and anxiety, and
• poor decision making

Tips to help delay your child’s use of alcohol:

• Take the time to talk often.
• Set clear and consistent messages.
• spend time together as a family.
• Be a positive role model.
• Be in the know. Know their friends, the facts, and that your voice counts.

Did you know?

• The brain continues to develop into the mid 20’s. Delay alcohol use as long as possible as it can harm brain development.
• On average, students report having their first drink at the age of 14.
• Alcohol is the number one drug used by Ontario students, in grades 7 to 12.

Remember

You are the most important influence in your child’s life.

Content adapted from a resource produced by the City of Hamilton Public Health Services. Reprinted with the permission of KFL&A Public Health.

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References: Boak, A., Hamilton, H.A., Adlaf, E.M., and Mann, R.E. (2013). Drug use among Ontario students, 1977, 2013: Detailed OSDUHS findings (CAMH Research Document Series No. 36). Toronto, ON: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.

This item was last modified on June 14, 2017