When it comes to underage drinking prevention, what we say to young people matters, but what we do often speaks louder. As adults, we are constantly modeling behaviors, values and boundaries, even when we don’t realize it. That includes how we talk about, handle and consume alcohol.
Words Are Important: How We Talk About Alcohol
Whether you’re joking about needing a drink after a long day or reminiscing about your college party days, the language you use around alcohol sends a message. Young people are listening, even when we think they’re not.
Instead of normalizing alcohol as a coping tool or a rite of passage, consider reframing those moments. Talk about healthy ways to manage stress or unwind, and be honest about the risks of alcohol misuse. Emphasize that underage drinking isn’t just illegal; it can be harmful to developing brains and bodies.
Resource: Talking to Your Kids About Substance Use
“Just a Sip” Isn’t Harmless
Some parents allow their children to drink small amounts at home, thinking it will teach them to be responsible, but research shows otherwise. Studies have found that teens who are allowed to drink at home are more likely to drink elsewhere, drink more heavily and engage in other risky behaviors, like riding with impaired drivers or having unprotected sex. These young people may interpret the permission as approval and are less likely to see drinking as risky or off-limits. The intention may be to protect them, but it often backfires.
Resource: Teens and Alcohol, Dangers of Underage Drinking
Home Environment: Lock It Up, Count It, Set Expectations
One of the simplest but most effective steps you can take is to make alcohol less accessible. Store alcohol out of sight and securely, just as you would medications or cleaning products. Make a habit of counting your beverages and communicating clear expectations around them not being touched.
Teens are naturally curious, and sometimes their first experience with alcohol happens right at home. Limiting access reinforces the message that alcohol is not for youth.
Resource: Preventing Teen Substance Use, Avoid Social Hosting
Adult Behavior Sets the Tone
It’s not just what’s in your liquor cabinet; it’s how you act. If a young person sees you binge drinking, using alcohol to handle emotions or driving impaired, it can normalize those behaviors.
Instead, model responsible drinking when appropriate:
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Know your limits and avoid excessive drinking
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Don’t drive after drinking, even if you’ve “just had one”
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Respect others’ choices not to drink
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Make it clear that alcohol isn’t a requirement for having fun or relaxing
When youth see adults making intentional, healthy decisions about alcohol, they are more likely to adopt those behaviors themselves.
Resource: Rethinking Drinking, Alcohol Safety
Small Steps, Big Impact
Prevention starts at home, and it starts with us. By creating a safe, informed and consistent environment around alcohol, we help build a foundation for healthy decision-making. Your actions and words are powerful tools in shaping how young people think about drinking—and whether they choose to do it.