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Set the RULE.

Have the TALK.

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE.

WHY TALKING TO YOUR TEEN ABOUT ALCOHOL MATTERS

They're Listening... Even If They Pretend Not To.

Parents, it’s time to start the conversation. When you talk openly and honestly with your teen about alcohol, you give them the tools to make safer choices. Your guidance builds trust and makes a lasting impact.

Drinking underage isn’t just "normal teen behavior" — it’s risky. Alcohol can harm brain development, increase risky behavior like impaired driving, and lead to long-term health challenges.

    Square shapeKEY STATS
  • Teens who talk with their parents about alcohol are 50% less likely to use alcohol.1
  • Early alcohol use increases the risk of alcohol dependency later in life.2
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"SAFE TEEN DRINKING" ISN’T A THING

Let’s Bust the Myth: Drinking at Home is Not Safer.

Some parents believe allowing teens to drink at home teaches them to be "responsible." But research shows this can actually lead to more drinking — not less.

Allowing underage drinking sends the message that it’s okay — but it’s not. Even occasional drinking can lead to serious short-term consequences like trouble at school, lower grades, or poor performance in sports.3 It also raises the risk of dangerous behaviors like drinking too much, driving under the influence, or getting hurt while under the influence. Over time, it can affect brain development and lead to long-term health issues.

    Square shapeREMINDER
  • There is no safe level of alcohol use for anyone under 21.

LOCK IT UP. KEEP IT SAFE.

If It's Easy to Get — It's Easy to Drink.

Most teens who drink get alcohol from their own home or a friend’s home. Locking up alcohol isn't about not trusting your teen — it's about protecting them.

Unsupervised access to alcohol increases the chance of underage drinking and risky behavior.

    Square shapeWHAT YOU CAN DO
  • Lock up all alcohol in your home
  • Track what you have
  • Set clear rules about drinking
  • Don't supply alcohol for teens — ever

RESOURCES FOR PARENTS & CAREGIVERS

Ready to Talk? Ready to Take Action?

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Funded by the OC Health Care Agency - Alcohol and Drug Education and Prevention Team

Funded by the OC Health Care Agency - Alcohol and Drug Education and Prevention Team

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