Yakima Parents; It’s Time to Talk To Your Kids About The Danger Of Alcohol

Alcohol consumption is about the ramp up with the increase in temperatures and if you're a parent of young person you need to know April is Alcohol Awareness Month.

SAFE YAKIMA VALLEY SAYS NOW IS THE TIME TO TALK DON'T WAIT

Officials with Safe Yakima Valley say it's a chance for parents to talk to young people about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs before kids are exposed to them. Safe Yakima Valley's campaign called "Talk. They Hear You" encourages parents and caregivers to have short frequent conversations about the risks of drugs and alcohol.

MANY KIDS IN THE VALLEY MAY KNOW MORE THAN YOU THINK

A recent study by the group found that only 63% of kids in Yakima county say their parents or caregivers talked with them about not drinking alcohol. 36% of 8th graders say they received alcohol at home with permission. Safe Yakima Valley says if a child uses any substance they have a 34% chance of developing a long term problem in the future.
The study also found that 41% of 12th graders in Yakima County think it's easy to get alcohol.

SO HOW DO YOU EVEN START A CONVERSATION?

Five simple tips from Safe Yakima Valley;

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking. Send a strong message.
• Show you care about your child's health, wellness and success.
• Show you are a good source of information about underage drinking and other drugs.
• Show that you are paying attention and discourage risky behaviors.
• Build your child's skills and strategies for avoiding drugs and alcohol.