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Q.  I have a 12-year old. He still seems like a little boy to me but I've watched the neighborhood children grow up so fast that I want to be prepared. How can I teach my son not to drink until he's old enough?

A.  Way to plan! There are several things you can do to increase the chances that your son will delay the onset of drinking until he's of legal age: 

• Set a good example for your children regarding the use of alcohol. 
• Encourage your children to talk with you about their problems and concerns. 
• Get to know your children's friends and discuss ways your children can avoid drinking when they are feeling pressured by peers. 
• Talk to other parents about ways to send a consistent, clear message that underage drinking is not acceptable behavior or a "rite of passage." 
• Encourage your children to participate in supervised activities and events that are challenging, fun and alcohol free. 
• Learn the warning signs that indicate your children may be drinking and act promptly to get help.   
• Make sure you're at home for all your children's parties and be sure those parties are alcohol free.

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