Parents... talking to your kids about alcohol

Talking to your child about alcohol?

There are all sorts of myths out there about young people and drinking - but the facts are often very different from the fiction.

Will they listen to me?

It might seem like they don’t listen to a word you say, but research shows parents have the most influence on young children’s attitudes and behaviour towards alcohol.

More about Why Talk

The majority of children aged 9-17 would turn to their parents first for information and advice on drinking alcohol.

Talking to your child about alcohol?

There are all sorts of myths out there about young people and drinking - but the facts are often very different from the fiction.

Is there evidence alcohol is bad for kids?

As children are smaller, and their bodies are still developing, they have a lower tolerance to alcohol and are much more vulnerable to its effects.

More about The Facts

The average age of a child's first drink is just under 14 and it's really important to talk to your kids before they start drinking

Talking to your child about alcohol?

There are all sorts of myths out there about young people and drinking - but the facts are often very different from the fiction.

Does my own drinking affect my child?

The majority (90%) of parents agree it is up to them to set a good example to their children through their own drinking habits.

More about Parental Drinking

Young people who start drinking at an early age drink more, and more frequently, than those who delay their first drink

Talking to your child about alcohol?

There are all sorts of myths out there about young people and drinking - but the facts are often very different from the fiction.

What age should I start talking to my child about alcohol?

Find out more about what to say when.

More about Tips & Advice

A quarter of 11-17 year olds believe it's not a problem for someone their age to drink alcohol once a week

Talking to your child about alcohol?

There are all sorts of myths out there about young people and drinking - but the facts are often very different from the fiction.

How much is too much for under 18s to drink?

Find out more about the UK chief medical officers' guidance around under 18s and alcohol.

More about Guidance

Not all children drink more than a half of 11 to 15 year olds have never drunk alcohol and this percentage has gone up in recent years

When it comes to alcohol, the more information your child has, and the earlier they get it, the better. On these pages you'll find the facts you need to feel more confident in keeping up a dialogue about responsible drinking with your child throughout their teenage years. Take the first steps by interacting with the video to your right.

See all The Facts

Some things you should know

Children can make more responsible decisions about drinking if they have the facts.

You have more influence than you think

Research shows that parents have the most influence on children’s behaviour and attitudes towards alcohol.

Children are aware of alcohol from a very young age

Research shows that children as young as seven understand about alcohol and its effects.

Talk to your children before their friends do

As kids grow up, the influence of their friends gets stronger, so it’s important it's you that talks to them first.

Tips & Advice

Time to talk...

Pick a time when neither of you feel rushed or under pressure

See age-appropriate tips:

Please select an age range

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