April is Alcohol Awareness Month

[April 15, 2009]  During Alcohol Awareness Month, the Logan County Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Task Force wants to remind parents and caregivers that they are one of the biggest influences in preventing youth alcohol use. Listed below are six tips to help you keep your children safe, healthy and alcohol-free:

1. Don't think, "It's not my child."

Every child is susceptible to drinking. Don't assume your child has not been tempted at some point.

2. Establish explicit rules and consequences.

Provide clear communication on the family policy for underage alcohol, tobacco and other illegal drug use. Make sure that you are firm that underage use will not be tolerated and what the consequences will be if that occurs.

3. Youth alcohol use is not a "rite of passage."

Most youth do not choose to drink. However for those who do, there needs to be a clear message that it is illegal and that serious health consequences can occur. As research shows, youth who begin drinking before age 15 are four times more likely to become alcohol-dependent, compared with those who wait until they are 21. In addition, because teens' brains continue to develop into their 20s, research shows that alcohol and other drugs can negatively affect brains.

4. Don't allow youth drinking in your home.

By allowing kids to drink at your home or someone else's home, you are giving permission to drink anywhere and anytime. Studies show that youth whose parents host teen parties where alcohol is served drink twice as much as kids whose parents have a no-tolerance rule. Remember, kids often drink to get drunk, and that is dangerous even if they don't get behind the wheel of a car.

5. Be a positive role model.

If you have an occasional alcoholic beverage, talk with your kids about responsible drinking by adults over 21. Let them see that you enjoy other beverages besides alcoholic ones and that you can abstain.

Finally, the most important tip:

6. You are the biggest influence in your children's lives.

Start talking with your children early and often. Even if you think that you have talked with them and they know the rules, talk with them again. The more you connect with your child, the less likely they will be to give into peer pressure. Use everyday moments, such as when watching television or driving in the car, to provide an opportunity to talk with your children about these issues. Don't shy away from the conversation, even if you are uncomfortable. It's important to have that open dialogue.

If you are looking to be a positive influence with the youth in your community, feel free to check out a Logan County ATOD Task Force meeting. Meetings are the first Friday of the month at noon at the Logan County Department of Public Health. For further information about the task force, contact Kristi Lessen at 217-732-5066.

[Text from file received from Camille Springer on behalf of the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Task Force]