Red Solo Cup... this is your favorite time of year too! As parents, we are terrified of any photo with our children holding you close in hand. But they may be put there. Twittered. Snapchatted. Instagrammed. You may think that ignorance is truly bliss. But when it comes to your teen drinking, knowledge is life saving.
Look at this Buzzfeed article and the images other countries have of American parties...
So how can we realistically help our kids? I truly believe we have to offer our kids FASES (FAce Saving Exit Strategies). I will offer these often, for every age and many situations. We all want to get out of challenging situation with grace, especially teenagers. Here are my thoughts:
- Have them say, NO-I don't drink. However, think back, how often did YOU do this? Were you successful?
- Have them offer a medical excuse, "I'm taking medicine for an illness right now and cannot have alcohol". Nope, it is not ok to lie...but if they find they are not strong enough to just say no, allow this one.
- Tell them to fill up the cup, but DO NOT DRINK from it. Pour it out slowly. Dump it in the sink. Pretend to drink, and then just don't! Go to the bathroom and rid of the drink. However, if a party is broken up with law enforcement, it is never a good idea to have the cup in hand anyway.
- Have them exit the situation. Call you. Text you. Make it ok for them to get a hold of you for a rescue and then blame you for the exit. It's ok for you to be the bad guy, if they stay safe, and remain in good standing with their peer group.
FASES are critical for all ages, even adults. Do you have any to share for this issue? Please do.
Finally, if you've got a little song in your head...here you go (and this is Glee's version because this is what our kids are watching). Keep it simple...everyday! ♥D
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