Monthly Parent Resource Guide

Underage Drinking

A Parent’s Guide to Underage Drinking Prevention

This guide is brought to you through a partnership between the Carmel Central School District, the Prevention Council of Putnam, and the Carmel Communities That Care Coalition, united by a shared mission: to educate and empower parents and caregivers with accurate, practical information to help keep children safe and healthy.

Why This Matters

Alcohol is the most commonly used substance among youth in the United States. 33% of Carmel 12^th graders report drinking alcohol in the past 30 days (Source: 2024 Prevention Needs Assessment Survey).
During adolescence, the brain undergoes significant growth and change that are essential for a healthy transition into adulthood. Alcohol use during the teen and young adult years can disrupt this development, with effects that may last a lifetime.
Even occasional drinking can affect a young person’s brain development, safety, academic success, and long‑term health. Parents and caregivers play a critical protective role.

Understanding Underage Drinking

The legal drinking age is 21 in all U.S. states.
The adolescent brain continues developing into the mid‑20s, and alcohol can interfere with memory, decision‑making, and emotional regulation.
Youth who start drinking before age 21 are more likely to develop alcohol use problems later in life.

Risks of Underage Drinking

Injuries and accidents (car crashes, falls, drowning)
Risky behaviors, including unsafe sexual activity and other substance use
Mental health impacts, such as anxiety and depression
Poor school performance and increased absenteeism
Alcohol poisoning, which can be life‑threatening

Signs Your Child May Be Drinking

Sudden changes in mood or behavior
Declining grades or school attendance
Secretive behavior or lying
Smell of alcohol or missing alcohol at home
Changes in friendships or activities

No single sign confirms alcohol use, but patterns matter.

How Parents and Caregivers Can Help

Talk Early and Often. Start conversations early, keep them age appropriate, and revisit them often. Be clear about your expectations while remaining calm and open.
Model Healthy Behavior. Youth learn from what they see. Responsible choices at home matter.
Set Clear Rules & Consequences. Consistent rules about alcohol reduce risky behavior.
Know Where and With Whom Your Child Spends Time. Supervision and connection are protective factors.
Encourage Healthy Coping Skills. Support stress management through sports, hobbies, sleep, and open communication.

What to Do If You’re Concerned