The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence reported that approximately 26.8 million children are exposed to alcoholism in the family and 6.6 million children age 18 and younger live in households with at least one alcoholic parent. Alcohol is becoming a drug of choice among young people. What must be done to prevent this?
Studies have shown that children who drink at a fairly young age are most likely to become victims of crimes, get involved with alcohol-related accidents and get in trouble at school -- leading to academic failure. Younger generations are beginning to experiment with alcohol due to their curious nature.
Alcohol brings harm not just on body organs but to the brain. Alcohol affects two crucial parts of the brain which are vulnerable when a teenager is developing. The changes impact a child's decision making, personality, memory and learning.
Alcohol is a depressant that affects the brain by causing it to slow down. In fact, studies on youths drinking alcohol show that heavy alcohol usage is associated with a 10% reduction in the size of the hippocampus. The hippocampus is responsible for memory and learning.
To prevent problems from arising, parents play a very important role. Childhood is the perfect time for learning and discovery in kids. Thus, it is the best time to educate them about alcoholism and the damage it may cause to an individual.
Parents are encouraged to talk to kids. At an early age, parents can practice open communication with children. For example, Mom and Dad can discuss the latest accident in the community which involves alcoholism. Discuss related facts and answer questions truthfully through open, honest, age-appropriate communication.
Setting expectations and building on house rules is important. Parents must enforce what is right or wrong, what is allowed or prohibited. Everyone in the family must understand the expectations -- from the youngest to the eldest sibling.
Engaging the kids in outdoor and sports activities will not only take them away from bad habits but also promote a healthy way of living. Enrol kids in summer camp programs and sports events to keep them busy. This will also help them build social and interpersonal skills.
