Childhood is a time that encourages involvement in many adventurous activities, particularly the prohibited ones. Immaturity and lack of experience can place the younger generation at higher risks of trying many items risky for health, including alcohol. Peer pressure and TV ads are two factors that often encourage a youngster to try alcohol.
Alcohol is one of the leading causes of injury deaths among people below 21 in the country. Previous studies have found American children starting the habit of drinking at very young ages, increasing the risk of having an alcohol use disorder. According to health experts, parents can help prevent this occurrence.
Following are some recommendations for parents by Dr. Claire McCarthy, a primary care physician at the Boston Children's Hospital:
* Try to keep a friendly relationship with the child. With examples, explain the hidden risks involved in trying alcohol. Middle school is the right time to start a conversation. Never force the child with a direct statement like "Don't drink." Instead of that, try to know the nature of your child's friends and explain the risks of trying alcohol due to peer pressure.
* Never involve too much in a child's life and try to avoid helicopter parenting. Always be there for the child, encouraging and supporting him/her at different stages of growth. Children who are successful and who have support from parents are less likely to involve in risky behaviors. It is crucial to know the nature of the child's friends, as friends have a great influence during childhood and children often try alcohol after getting inspired by their drinking friends. Allowing children to drink alcohol under parental supervision also can prove to be more harmful than beneficial.
* Stop or reduce alcohol consumption and set an example to the child
* Never hesitate to seek expert advice. The child's doctor or school guidance counselor can help when the situation requires.
