6% of 8th graders, 25.7% of 10th graders, and 32.7% of 12th graders reported drinking an alcoholic beverage in the past 30 days
- Heavy drinking is a problem at higher-grade levels- 15.4% of 10th graders and 18.1% of 12th graders reported binge drinking (5 or more drinks in one sitting) in the past two weeks
- 3% of those that report drinking say they got the alcohol from parents with their permission, 50.1% obtain alcohol from people over the age of 21, and 43% get it from other family members
- 8% of those that report drinking say they drink at home with parent’s permission and 37.4% drink at someone else’s home with their parent’s permission
Remember, it is illegal to buy or serve alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age, and buying alcohol for a minor may be a $1,000 fine and up to 1 year of jail time. This holiday season, we all have the opportunity to create strong family traditions that are not built around drinking, with a few simple steps.
- Take time to plan and promote non-alcoholic activities for your teens.
- Consider where alcohol is stocked in your home and make sure it is locked up and monitored to reduce easy access.
- Have open conversations with your kids about safe drinking behavior and stress that decision-making and judgement are impaired when someone is intoxicated or drunk, and that it is important to know one’s limits. Remind them that drinking and driving is never a safe option and always make sure they have a safe way home.
- Parents are the most important teachers for their kids; be a positive role model and limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
For more information, visit our website at
www.casa-trinity.org]]>
