Children and Alcohol

Recently, my family and I attended a wedding where my oldest child, just sixteen, took it upon himself to drink alcohol. Now, if this were me in the day, my father would have taken me right then and there and punched the living you know what out of me. However, I do enjoy a drink or two, but not being a drunk I felt that he was just being curious. As well, it being a controlled environment, I knew it wouldn’t get out of control, I mean after all, there were family members everywhere and I knew he’d be watched from every angle.

I did, however, take a drink from him when I caught him. After all, we as parents cannot give up our control to the children but must maintain it and flex our muscles once in a while. I had a laugh with my wife about it afterwards, but at that moment he needed to know I am still his boss and will be until he is old enough to drink or out on his own. I cannot say that all should do as I do, but before someone reacts harshly to their child’s actions, I do suggest all parents assess the situation and environment. Step back and think first, then the child may actually think that they are getting your respect and attempted understanding. By letting them believe that, true or not, it may evoke more positive reactions and thoughts from the child. After all, they do learn from example.