Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 149 Talk to your children (continued) • Set clear expectations and rules around their use of alcohol. • Make sure they understand the consequences of underage alcohol use, including the legal implications. • Encourage healthy ways for your pre-teens to have fun and develop positive self-esteem by participating in activities that interest them. • Stay involved in their lives by planning oneon-one time or family activities. • Get to know their friends and friend's families. • Teach your pre-teens how to make smart choices and how to say "no" to peer pressure. From 13 to 19 years of age (teens) Teenagers might think that drinking alcohol is a good way to celebrate important milestones in their lives, such as: • A first date; • Getting a driver's licence; • Getting a job; • Summer vacation; • Their last year of school; • Graduating. Talk with your teen about the real-life, possible consequences of alcohol use, including: • Doing something embarrassing; • Getting into a fight with a friend (or stranger); • Getting sick; • Being involved in a car collision; • Getting in trouble at school and/or at home. You can also try these tips: • Choose times and places that make it easier to talk. • Bring up the topic naturally - like after watching a TV show or a movie that involves alcohol; or when there is a news story that involves alcohol use. • Make sure your teens know the laws regarding alcohol, including underage use, open alcohol and drinking and driving. • Be open and honest. Encourage your teens to share their thoughts, experiences, feelings and opinions. • Answer your teen's questions about alcohol without exaggerating or using scare tactics. • Set clear expectations and rules around alcohol use. Teens want parents to set boundaries, even if they sometimes disobey the rules. • Teach your teens how to make smart choices and how to rise above peer pressure. Questions to help kick-start a conversation about alcohol with your teen: • Why do you think alcohol is illegal for people under the age of 19? • What do you think about our house rules around alcohol? If you were a parent, what would you change? • Have you been bothered or impacted by someone's alcohol use? What about it bothered you? • Do any of your friends drink alcohol? When and why do you think they do? • What do you think when people your age drink alcohol? What would you say if your friend offered you some alcohol? What would you say if a stranger did? Would it make a difference? The bottom line is that if it's your teen, and your alcohol, you're responsible. saskatchewan.ca
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