- Experts urge parents to discuss underage drinking with kids during spring break.
- Health experts warn alcohol affects developing brains, increasing addiction risk later in life.
- Parents Empowered said parents should set clear expectations and engage in alcohol-free activities with kids.
SALT LAKE CITY — Experts say that now is the time for parents to have an important conversation with their kids about underage drinking.
It can feel tough, but it really comes down to being there for them and showing that you can have fun together without alcohol.
Spring break for the Graybill family
Spring break looks different for the Graybill family. No big trip this year, just work, chores, and time together. For mom Nickie, those everyday moments are chances to connect and talk about healthy choices.
"We like to watch movies together, we have a park in the backyard, so we love to go play volleyball."
Her daughter Hannah looks forward to spring break every year.
"I'm excited for spring break. I feel like I'm just kind of done with school. It's felt so long," she said.
Those activities keep them close, but spring break also means time with friends — where they may run into alcohol.
"So just try and stay strong and, try and stay away from it the best you can. I know that it's hard to," said Bailey Graybill.
Health experts say a child's brain is still developing into the mid-20s, making it more vulnerable to alcohol's effects on memory, judgment, and learning.
Sierra Marsh is a prevention specialist with Murray City School District.
"It increases the chances of developing addiction later in life," she said. "For parents, the goal is to protect our kids for as long as possible. Keep those brains as safe, as healthy as we can."
Staying involved can include the small moments
With routines shifting, she urges parents to stay involved: plan alcohol-free activities, talk with other parents, and set clear expectations.
"Sixth, eighth, 10th, and 12th grade students are reporting that the No. 1 reason they choose not to drink is because parents set a very clear expectation that alcohol is just completely off the table," said Marsh.
For the Graybills, connection often comes in small moments — quiet talks in the car or before bed.
"She tries ... to make it relatable instead of just like saying all the bad things that come with it," said Bailey Graybill.
Nickie Graybill hopes those conversations will guide her girls as they face tough choices.
"Whatever they choose to do, whether it is alcohol or whether it is drugs or any, any choice that they can make a choice, but they can't choose the consequences," she said.
In the end, parents matter most. If you're looking for simple ways to connect this week, our partners at Parents Empowered have tools for families on its website.
