Email to a Friend

Printer Friendly Version

Also on the Web The Providence Center

It's considered a staple of college life: binge drinking and spring break parties. College students tend to get out of control when it comes to drinking but often the problem starts long before. That's why experts here at the providence center want parents to know how to recognize the signs of an alcohol problem and how to warn your kids well in advance.  

Jeffrey noll of the Providence Center says, "kids need to know what alcohol is. They need to know it's an adult drink, they need to know too much of it is bad for anyone." 

he says those discussions should be starting as young as pre-school.    He helps kids and their families who may be dealing with alcohol problems here at the providence center. He says parents can often find moments to discuss it in every day conversations with their children, such as using alcohol ads and other media to help initiate the discussion.

Noll says, "you have to find a teachable moment, so you can have a small conversation many, many times over." 

it's important to start young.  Statistics show 1 in 5 8th graders say they drink alcohol on a regular basis. The reality is if you can give your kids the facts early, they'll be familiar with the consequences before they happen and if it does become a problem... Get help.

Noll says, "i think a parent wants to seek outside assistance when they've tried what they know and it's not working."

to contact the providence center call 528-0123