How to keep your teen alcohol-free this holiday season

THE WOODLANDS, TX – As the holidays approach, many parents face a familiar question: Is it really that harmful to let my teen have a small drink, especially under my supervision?

It might seem like a harmless gesture, or even a way to teach responsibility. But research shows that when it comes to teens, even a single drink can have long-lasting impacts.

Let’s dive into how you can make the holidays magical without putting your teen’s future at risk.

Here's What We Know:

Early Drinking = Bigger Risks

• Teens who start drinking early are more likely to binge drink and develop long-term habits that can lead to addiction. The stats don’t lie – 90% of addictions begin in adolescence, and delaying first-time alcohol use as long as possible dramatically lowers addiction risk​.

Alcohol and the Brain

• The teen brain is in turbo-development mode. When alcohol enters the picture, it changes the brain’s natural reward system, setting the stage for dependency. It’s not just about one drink – it’s about wiring their brain for future struggles​​.

Shattering The Myths

Myth: “One small drink won’t hurt.”
Fact: Even a little can make a big impact on a developing brain. No amount is truly “safe” for teens.

Myth: “Drinking with me at home is better than unsupervised.”
Fact: Supervised drinking normalizes the behavior, making teens more likely to drink elsewhere​.

How Do You Keep The Holidays Alcohol-Free And Awesome?

Have an Honest Chat

• Talk to your teen openly about why alcohol isn’t part of their holiday experience. Use real-world examples and facts about how alcohol affects their health and goals. Read the underage drinking facts here.

Plan Fun (and Festive!) Alternatives

• Turn up the holiday cheer with creative activities – baking competitions, DIY holiday crafts, or even a hot cocoa bar. Teens love bonding over shared experiences, and it shows them that celebration doesn’t need a buzz.

Model Healthy Choices

• Your actions matter. Show them that fun doesn’t depend on alcohol, even for adults. If you’re drinking, keep it responsible and emphasize that it’s a choice for grown-ups, not teens.

Set Clear Expectations

• Let your teen know the boundaries and the reasons behind them. Be consistent and confident. They might not admit it, but they’ll respect the clarity.

The Gift That Keeps Giving

• By making the holidays alcohol-free for your teen, you’re giving them more than just a safe season. You’re protecting their health, strengthening their confidence, and setting them up for a life of making great choices.

This holiday season, let’s give our teens a story to tell – one of laughter, joy, and meaningful memories, untouched by the risks of alcohol.

After all, the best traditions are the ones that nurture their potential and keep them thriving.

Ready to inspire your teen? Share the concept of a natural high – that rush of excitement from finding a passion or hobby. Encourage them to explore their unique talents and celebrate what truly lights them up over the winter break​​.

This holiday season, let’s raise a glass – of sparkling cider – to a brighter, healthier future for our kids!