Published: May 14, 2008 10:00 am         

Forum: Parents can deal with drinking

Prom and graduation season are here.

In communities across Michigan, the spring and summer months are a time when our students begin to turn their attention to prom, graduation and the months beyond.

It's a time for celebration and fun.

Unfortunately, it's also a time when teens may try alcohol.

It's illegal. It's irresponsible. And it can turn the summer season into a time of tragedy.

As a whole, teen drinking is a problem. According to the Michigan Department of Education, more than 80 percent of high school seniors have used alcohol, and more than 30 percent say they've been in a vehicle with someone who's been drinking.

These numbers are alarming.

While national studies show we have made progress in the fight against underage drinking, the fact remains that minors continue to illegally consume alcohol. More needs to be done to keep alcohol out of the hands of minors.

Underage drinking isn't a "minor" problem -- it's everybody's problem and it needs to stop.

The good news is we can do something about it.

Parents, local leaders, small businesses and Michigan's family-owned beer and wine distributors are joining forces to help keep alcohol out of the hands of children.

Parents can use some useful strategies to fight alcohol use among teens. Having a positive relationship with your child makes communication easier and more effective. Spend time with your teen and listen to them when they speak. Remind your child not to cave in to pressure and that many adults and teens choose not to drink alcohol.

You can also protect your child by learning more about the company your child keeps. Call parents or places hosting teen summer parties to make sure alcohol won't be served. Communication with your child is crucial, and so is staying in contact when they are away from the home. Always have cell-phone numbers of your child's friends ready and make sure you and your child can stay in touch.

As parents, we should also remember that we're not alone in making the next few months and beyond safe for our kids. Reach out to other parents and, together, pledge to prevent teen alcohol use in your homes. Visit stores and thank the owners for checking IDs and refusing to sell alcohol to underage youth. Keep an eye out for signs of intoxication in youth and promptly report signs of underage drinking as a way to prevent accidents.

Partnering with schools to support effective policies is another helpful strategy to keep alcohol away from children. Because our children deserve to still have fun and enjoy their youth, you can play a key role in promoting alcohol-free events. Encourage schools and community centers to have after-school or summer events, and spur your child to become active in community service.

Our law enforcement agencies are also working hard with the community to crack down on adults who buy alcohol for underage youths.

About the author: Pat Wicksall is president of Wicksall Distributors Inc., a family-owned beer and wine distributor based in Traverse City.

More information

To help parents talk to their children about underage drinking, the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals and the Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association have produced a booklet called, "Parents Unite to Prevent Underage Drinking." To obtain a booklet, call the MBWWA at (517) 482-5555, ext. 12, or the MASSP at (517) 327-5315. Copies are also available at www.mymassp.com.