My Child Learns from What I Do

Your child learns from watching you. Your child was watching you when she or he learned how to walk. Your child followed your example when he or she was learning how to talk. Your child is still watching you. What is she or he learning about alcohol use/nonuse in your family?

Be a responsible host.

Offer nonalcoholic beverages as well as alcoholic beverages. Be aware of the amount your guests are drinking, especially those who are driving.

Talk about family guidelines.

Is it OK to be drunk? Is it funny? What do we expect of each other regarding alcohol use/nonuse?

Find teachable moments.

Watching TV with your child can provide a chance to talk about the advertising messages we get. "Do you think I will be that good looking if I drink that beer?"

R E M E M B E R

I can show my child safe and healthy standards about alcohol use/nonuse.

Research shows that parents' standards matter to their kids.

Your children are looking to you. Be direct. Be honest. Consistent standards and rules are important for your children.

Alcohol is a 'gateway' drug for kids.

Alcohol is the drug of choice - for parents, for children. It is the drug children experiment with first. It is not okay to think "but my child is only using alcohol."

My prevention efforts are best focused on alcohol.

Prevention can start with the drug that is most readily available. And it can start at home. Talking to your child about your standards is a way to begin. Together create a family standard or a family contract.

What I model influences my child's attitudes and decisions.

• Is it important for me to drink to have 'fun'?
• What are three ways I can relax with my family without the use of alcohol?
• A way I can have fun with my family this week is...

This piece is a representation of a brochure you can order from the Minnesota Institute of Public Health along with other resources that are available about parents, children and chemical health. Call 763-427-5310 for further information.