Experts say as kids go back to school, parents shouldn’t skip talking about underage drinking

SALT LAKE CITY — Kids are settling back into the school routine, meeting new friends and diving into new experiences. But along with that excitement, there’s one conversation parents can’t afford to skip.

Our friends at Parents Empowered suggest starting chats about underage drinking early and keeping them going, so kids feel informed, supported and ready to make healthy choices.

For Marli Lloyd, catching up with her boys is more than a routine; it’s her favorite part of the day.

“My second one is Xander. He’s 16. Third is Wyatt. He’s 13. My baby is 11 and his name is Grayson,” Lloyd said.

As the new school year kicks off, her family’s schedule is packed with classes, sports and social events.

“They were excited to go back because of a structured schedule, but I think more social, right?” Lloyd said.

That’s exactly why experts say now is the perfect time to check in with real talk about the risks of underage drinking.

Sierra Marsh works with families across the Murray School District. She said having a connection between children and their parents is key.

“That builds a lot of trust in relationships with your kids, which opens the door for meaningful conversations about hard things,” Marsh said.

Lloyd agreed. She’s found that asking questions can lead to powerful insights.

“What was something hard today? What was something fun today? What was the best part of today?” Lloyd said.

And here’s something every parent should know: Studies show that when kids believe their parents strongly disapprove of underage drinking, only about 2% will actually do it.

Lloyd said it’s not just about saying don’t drink, it’s about explaining why.

“My 16-year-old and my 19-year-old, they definitely need to know these are the reasons, not just because I said so,” she said.

Experts say alcohol can affect memory, learning and decision making – especially in developing brains.

“Our brains are still developing until our mid-20s, so it’s important to protect those brains for as long as we can,” Marsh said.

Marsh encourages parents to stay involved, and if their teen finds themselves in a tough spot, make a plan beforehand.

Lloyd said she asks questions like, “If your friend that was driving you drinks, and you saw that, what do you do?”

“You can call mom. Even if you know that I might be mad … I want you to call me,” Lloyd said.

Parents not in this alone. Parents Embowered’s website is packed with tools, tips and conversation starters to help you guide your kids toward an alcohol-free future.