The problem of irresponsible alcohol consumption does not distinguish ages, and more and more minors are exposed. Anticipating will offer the child strategies to distinguish unhealthy proposals. We tell you how and when to talk to them, depending on the stage they are in.
Talking to children about alcohol and drugs is something that needs to be done sooner or later and should not be a problem. Alcohol and drugs are a reality to which children are exposed – and increasingly at an earlier age.
Talking about alcohol and drug use should be done before a child is at risk, at the first sign of curiosity or doubt. If a child cannot find answers at home or school, he or she will look for them outside, not to mention the real possibility that questions and answers will simply cross his or her path.
Addressing the issue of drugs and alcohol appropriately acts as a vaccine against their use. It does not guarantee the absence of problems, but it does offer the child strategies to deal with the doubts and unhealthy proposals that he or she will encounter. In their eagerness to explore the world and find their own identity, young people, as they reach pre-adolescence and adolescence, will want to know what is out there and what would happen if they tried everything that is offered to them.
The more secrecy and prohibition they encounter, the more they will be interested in learning and experimenting. If they only associate it with what is forbidden, they will see this path as a possible alternative to what is permitted and perhaps they do not like it.
Preliminary considerations
The way to approach the subject of alcohol and drugs depends on many factors, such as the age of the child, their level of maturity, their level of risk, and even the relationship between the child and the adult who raises the subject or resolves doubts, among others.
Although it may seem obvious, it is important to remember that the example of the consumption of alcohol and drugs in the presence of the child with complete freedom and impunity does not encourage the child to understand the harm that these substances can cause, including tobacco consumption.
In this sense, the child must receive information and recommendations from people who have a healthy lifestyle and who fully apply the advice they give. Telling a child “do as I say and not as I do” never works.
When to start talking to children about alcohol and drugs
According to experts, it is best to develop an ongoing dialogue with children, if possible, starting at preschool age. The best way to do this is through spontaneous everyday situations as well as “teachable moments” in which the foundations for open and honest communication on these topics are laid .
In this regard, it is worth noting that research shows that children who hear facts about drugs and alcohol from their parents are significantly less likely to use them. The question now is how to approach the subject at each age. Below we see some ways to do it.
Talking about alcohol and drugs with children aged 3 to 5
During the preschool years, children have strong ties to their families and seek approval from their parents. This is a good time to talk to children about the importance of good nutrition, proper hygiene, and developing a healthy lifestyle. It is also a good time to help children develop decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Between the ages of 3 and 5, it is important to talk to children about the joys of a healthy life, including healthy food, getting enough rest, and taking care of their bodies. In this regard, it is recommended that children make some simple decisions so that they learn to be responsible and experience the pleasure of making good choices.
Between the ages of 3 and 5, children should also be encouraged to take responsibility for their health and well-being by carrying out hygiene routines, caring for others (such as pets), and doing household chores (such as picking up their toys). This will, among other things, foster their decision-making and self-control skills.
Talking about hazardous substances in the environment is also very important to make children aware that not everything around them is safe. This includes cleaning products, sanitary products, and medicines. Particular care must be taken with medicines, as children must understand that they can only be taken when necessary and in the right amount.
Talking about alcohol and drugs with children aged 5 to 8
As children progress through school and spend more time with their peers, the influence of their peers increases. The same is true of information received through the various media.
Between the ages of 5 and 8, children are open to new ideas and messages, but they need help making sense of all this information.
Therefore, between the ages of 5 and 8, it is important to inform children about the effects of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs, by holding conversations about current events. Future consequences are not something that children of this age are interested in. Thus, the topic should be addressed from issues such as difficulties in doing something after consuming these substances or direct effects (such as bad breath or risk of injury).
Taking advantage of the messages offered by the media is a good way to approach the topic of alcohol and drugs, as well as to probe the child’s opinion on the subject. It is also a good way to mitigate doubts and share concerns about the topic.
Although it may seem premature, rules about drug and alcohol use should begin to be established between the ages of 5 and 8. This is not the time to prohibit, but rather to set an example and make visible the self-control and responsibility of adults.
Aside from alcohol and drug use, the age range of 5 to 8 is also a good time to help children develop problem-solving skills. These skills will serve them well when they are faced with choosing what their friends offer them in the future and dealing with the problems that arise when they say no.
Talking about alcohol and drugs from the age of 8
From the age of 8, children can begin to assert their independence and question their parents’ authority, but they need their parents’ opinions and advice more than ever. When it comes to the issue of drug and alcohol use, this is one of the most important times for a child.
Therefore, from the age of 8 onwards, it is important to ensure that children know the rules regarding tobacco, alcohol, and drug use. At this age, children can understand the reasons for the rules and understand that there are limits. In this regard, it is worth noting that research shows that children are less likely to use tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs if their parents have established a pattern of clear rules and consequences.
From the age of 8, it is time to teach children to say “no” to drugs, that is, to show them the clear answer they should give. This will avoid situations of doubt that make them vulnerable to the influence of third parties.
But saying “no” can be problematic for children as young as 8 years old. That’s why it’s important to boost children’s self-esteem, as puberty is a time that can erode young people’s self-confidence. This leads to insecurity, doubt, and vulnerability to peer pressure.
It is also essential that children over 8 years of age know how to make responsible decisions and feel able to do so freely. Furthermore, children should be self-sufficient when making choices on certain issues and not simply ask for permission to make a decision.
Another important issue that needs to be addressed from the age of 8 is the separation of reality from fantasy. Children must learn to differentiate between what is real and what is fiction, as well as to distinguish these aspects in advertising messages. Finally, it is important that children aged 8 and over engage in healthy and recreational activities that promote human values, and foster friendship, cooperation, and the pursuit of common interests. These activities, in addition to being very positive for their development, will offer them positive alternatives to occupy their free time. A bored young person is a vulnerable young person.