Teens say that parents are the number one influence in their lives, and you have everything you need-right now-to help protect your teen from underage drinking. Don't wait for a better time; this is the best time!

Talk with your kids, listen to your kids.
Find out what they are thinking, and what they are feeling. Every day, know who they hang out with, what they do, and where they're going. Not only will it help you influence and keep track of your child, but you also can get to know each other better.

Teach your teen.
Discuss the effects of alcohol use and why alcohol is especially bad for young people. The more your child knows, the better informed he will be to make wise decisions about alcohol use.

Set the right example.
If you drink, limit your alcohol use, especially in front of your children. Kids learn most of their habits from parents and caregivers.

Be firm and consistent.
Make sure to set clear expectations and follow through on the rules you make. Enforce the consequences of breaking the rules the first time. Be fair.

Control your surroundings.
Account for any alcohol you have around the house, and store it away from your teen. You might be surprised to know that most teens get alcohol by buying it or getting it from home-if not your home, teens say they often drink at their friends' houses. That liquor cabinet in the dining room might stir up your child's curiosity, so keep its contents out of reach.

Teach media literacy.
Watch TV with them and talk about what they are seeing and hearing; tell them why some programs are not as good as others. Set guidelines and try to limit your child's contact with TV shows, music, and magazine ads that promote alcohol. Encourage your child to take part in other activities-reading, playing sports, and writing.

Keep your eyes open, notice the signs.
If something does not seem right, it probably isn't. If you aren't sure how to approach your child, get ideas or get help from your doctor, your child's teacher, a counselor, or another caring adult.

Be proactive.
Get involved not only in your kid's life but also in the lives of other kids, parents, and caregivers. Do as much as you can, when you can, to prevent underage drinking. Make use of available tools and find out about related laws and organizations so you can be part of the larger effort.

In addition, if you want new ideas on how to help your teen make healthy choices, you can look around for help:

• Connect with other parents and caregivers to get ideas on how to prevent your teen from drinking alcohol.
• Take advantage of activities and events in your community that can help your children lead alcohol-free lives.
• Get support, create a network. Not only is it wise to get to know your kids and their friends, but also get to know their friends' parents, too. Urge them to get involved in prevention activities and to be available to give and get support.

Additional Resources:

• Center for Substance Abuse Prevention
• Center for Media Literacy
• Maryland Underage Drinking Prevention Coalition
• National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information