As a parent, sometimes it feels like your child doesn’t listen to anything you say. From telling them to clean up their room only to see it still looking like a mess a day later to trying to discuss something important with them while their eyes are glued to their smartphone – it’s only natural to believe that everything you say goes in one ear and out the other.
If they won’t listen, why even try?
The truth is, they are listening. Believe it or not, over 80% of young people ages 10-18 say that the leading influence on their decision to drink isn’t their friends, teachers, or what they watch on TV – it’s you! So while their room may still be messy and they aren’t going to spend less time on their smartphone, the conversations you have with them about alcohol are highly likely to have an impact on their decision to drink or say no.
When they are asked by a friend at a party if they want a beer or pressured to drink a shot – you will be on their mind. By taking a strong stance against underage drinking and making sure that they know exactly how you feel, you give them a reason to just say no. And while they will never tell you that what you said made them turn down a drink, you can be proud of the fact that you’re having difficult conversations that have the power to improve their lives and help them avoid the many problems that come with underage drinking.
Have faith in your ability to shape your teen and talk to them about underage drinking. Need help knowing what to say to your teen? We’re here to help. Read 8 Reasons To Talk About Alcohol with Your Teen Today. For additional Talking/Listening TIPs, visit TIPtheScale.org or follow TIP the Scale’s Facebook page.
Sources:
- samhsa.gov. 2016