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Raising teens can be a difficult task, and when it comes to discussing the dangers of underage drinking, many parents feel at a loss. It’s important to talk openly with your teen about alcohol use as early as possible, so they understand the risks and safety concerns associated with it. This can be especially important around the holidays and breaks from school, as there seems to be a lot more temptation and opportunity. Here are some tips for having an effective conversation with your teen about underage drinking:

1. Start Early: The earlier you start talking to your teens about alcohol use, the better prepared they will be if confronted by peer pressure or other influences, which often starts earlier than we like to believe. Make sure that you discuss not only why underage drinking is illegal, but also how dangerous it can be for their physical and mental health and development.

Do your best to manage your own feelings and affect when asking questions, so that your teen will not feel like they are in trouble for talking with you about underage drinking.

2. Listen & Educate: When talking to teens about alcohol use, make sure that you listen carefully and answer any questions they may have honestly, and without judgment or criticism. Don’t assume that they have all of the information just because they spend a lot of time on their phone. Be sure to provide factual information on topics, such as binge-drinking, long-term effects of heavy consumption, and the danger of being in a vehicle with an intoxicated or impaired driver. Do your best to manage your own feelings and affect when asking questions, so that your teen will not feel like they are in trouble for talking with you about underage drinking.

 3. Set Boundaries: Letting your teen know what is acceptable behavior when it comes to using alcohol – whether at home or in social situations – will help ensure that they understand the limits and expectation that you set with them. It is often helpful to discuss what the consequences will be, while reinforcing that those boundaries are there to help keep them as safe as possible from unnecessary risk. Share your expectations for your teen with other family members, and their friend’s parents when teens stay over at a friend’s house, as each family may have a different point of view on the subject.

There isn’t really a wrong time to talk with your teen about underage drinking, especially around the holidays when there seems to be more gatherings and celebrations involving alcohol. Try to help your teen understand the reasons and situations when teens engage in underage drinking, and how those can be navigated. You don’t have to have all of the answers, yet you can be clear about your boundaries and expectations.