How to Talk to your Student about Drinking

1. Continue the dialog
Keep the communication lines open with your student by discussing drinking and how he or she can continue to make smart choices at college.

2. Create Shared Expectations
Set goals—and consequences if goals are not met—for your student's performance, both academically and socially, at college.

3. Know and Respect the Law
Understand the penalties for underage and/or abusive drinking and share them with your student.

4. Focus On “True” Norms
Let your student know that, in fact, the majority of college students don't abuse alcohol. Moderate or infrequent drinking is the “ true norm.”

5. Share the Facts
Thanks to your previous discussions as your children were growing up, your student will understand the effects of alcohol, but you can also share responsible drinking tips they can use when they are of legal age and ways they can help their friends who may be abusing alcohol.

6. Take Advantage of Campus Resources
Colleges and universities offer a variety of services, from academic support to alcohol treatment assistance. Encourage students to take advantage of the appropriate resources, especially if they or their friends may be abusing alcohol.

Information on this page used with permission from Anheuser-Busch, for more information regarding College Talk, visit: www.collegetalkonline.com.