Small Talks: Do More Than Talk

Meaningful conversations are great. They’re also just the beginning. There are many everyday actions that parents, caregivers, and caring adults in the community can take that help address and prevent underage drinking.

What helps shape kids’ perception of alcohol?

The media plays a major role in kids’ opinions and perceptions of alcohol. Alcohol companies spend $2 billion per year on advertising—delivered on almost every platform imaginable. Research shows that youths are exposed to an average of three alcohol ads per day. This has an impact! Alcohol advertising increases the likelihood that kids will start to use alcohol. And beyond advertising, alcohol is prevalent in the shows they watch, videos they see, and music they listen to.

So, what can you do?

• Pay attention to the media kids consume and try to reduce their exposure to alcohol marketing.
• Look for teachable moments when kids are exposed to messaging about alcohol. Do they understand the risks?
• Ask kids about their opinions and perceptions about alcohol. How do they feel alcohol is portrayed by the celebrities, artists, or influencers they follow?
• Educate kids about how marketing efforts aim to shape their opinions about alcohol and certain brands.

Use your influence

Every adult knows: kids pay attention to what you say and what you do. Kids often try to emulate the behavior of the people they respect and admire. Lead by example and use your influence to help prevent underage drinking.

Model healthy behavior

Taking a stand against underage drinking doesn’t mean you have to give up alcohol. The key is showing kids that when adults drink, they respect their well-being. Here’s what you can do:

• If you drink in front of kids, drink in moderation.
• Don’t talk about drinking as a way to manage stress.
• If hosting a party, provide alcohol-free alternatives.

See our infographic, "Your drinking habits become your child's drinking habits," for more tips.

Understand Wisconsin laws

• Social hosting for underage drinking is never acceptable. You can face serious fines if other people’s children are allowed to drink alcohol on your property.
• The legal drinking for alcohol age is 21. Respect it.
• Wisconsin is one of the only states that allows a legal guardian or spouse of legal age to buy alcohol for a minor at a bar or restaurant. But just because it's legal doesn't make it safe for a young person’s growing body. When you say no to underage drinking in public spaces, like your family’s favorite eatery, you help other parents and caregivers do the same.

Be involved in your community

Many organizations, including community coalitions and government agencies, like your local health department, are working together with community members to prevent underage drinking and make Wisconsin communities safer. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Become a volunteer with your local Alliance for Wisconsin Youth coalition.
• Support alcohol-free community events.
• Help limit access to alcohol in your community.

Become a role model

Anyone in the community can be a role model and a positive influence to help kids make the right choices about alcohol. Together, parents, caregivers, and other trusted adults can work together to impact underage drinking.

Learn how everyone can help reduce underage drinking in Wisconsin