Start early
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends talking to kids about underage drinking as early as age 9.1 Research shows kids are making up their minds about alcohol between the ages of 9 to 13 and those perceptions can become more favorable as they mature. And if they view it as pleasurable, they’re much more likely to drink underage.2 If your child is older, it’s never too late to start the discussion.
Your influence is powerful
That’s the great news! Utah kids report the number one reason they choose not to drink is their parents’ strong disapproval.3
Why prevent underage drinking?
Because it protects a child’s future. Alcohol affects a young, still developing brain very differently than an adult’s brain, impairing proper development and increasing risks of addiction, depression, suicide, injury, violence, academic problems and more.4
Learn the HarmsHow can I help prevent my kid from drinking underage?
Here are some suggestions that can help keep your child alcohol-free. Spend fun time together, set clear “no alcohol” rules and stay involved in your kid’s life.
Learn HowResources
Get the tools and help you need to prevent underage drinking here—everything from conversation starters, podcasts, games to play, videos to watch and so much more.
ResourcesIn the News
Underage drinking can be a serious threat to our children and communities. Learn about the latest research and efforts to prevent it.
ABC4 David Wakins TV Coverage
Fox13 SeaQuest Coverage
KUTV Springbreak Takeover
KUTV Alcohol Awareness Month
Fresh Living TV Coverage
DABC TV Coverage
About Us
Our goal is to eliminate underage drinking in Utah. We do that by empowering parents to use the tremendous influence they have to keep their children alcohol-free.
Learn MoreOur Partners
Sources
1 Utah Student Health and Risk Prevention [SHARP] Survey, 2019.
2 https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/136/3/e718
3 Utah Student Health and Risk Prevention [SHARP] Survey, 2019.
4 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK37591/