Understanding Responsible Drinking This Spring

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Spring is almost here! That means longer days, sunny weather, and afternoons with friends! I cannot wait to welcome back all my family, friends, and neighbors in a safe and special way. Backyard barbecues, Sunday brunches, and alfresco dinner parties are at the top of my to-do list! Of course, I want to make sure everyone has a great time, so I’ll be mixing up specialty cocktails and spirits with safety and responsibility in mind.

Over 8-in-10 parents (85%) and kids (86%) reported having at least one conversation about the dangers of drinking alcohol in the past year.

Partnership for Responsible Parenting

That means, once again I’m partnering with Responsibility.org, one of my favorite organizations, that focuses on responsible consumption, responsible parenting, and open conversations between kids and parents about alcohol. And responsible consumption starts with a responsible pour! I’ll admit I’ve poured a glass of wine without measuring before. And that can make it hard to know how much you’re actually drinking. So for this season’s outdoor parties, I’ll be measuring out all my beverages and cocktail ingredients.

Drinking Delicious and Safe Cocktails

And some of my favorite sips? The Tapatio Girafa and Sunshine Sour! Both super fun and delicious warm-weather cocktails that are easy to make and sure to impress your neighbors at your next outdoor bash! Need something non-alcoholic? Just swap the alcohol for juices for bright, flavorful drinks. And be sure to have lots of bites to eat and water on hand to stay hydrated—especially in the spring and summer heat!

Tapatio Girafa
1 packet tajin
¼ oz agave syrup
½ oz lemon juice
1-1/2 oz tequila
2 oz ginger beer
Ice

Sunshine Sour
1-1/2 oz cranberry apple tea
½ agave syrup
¾ oz lemon juice
Ice

Both parents and kids (46% and 44%, respectively) stated their kids/they themselves will be faced with the decision to drink alcohol within the next year.

Leading By Example

And while we’re safely and responsibly drinking and visiting with our friends, I know that we’re setting a great example for our kids. Showing them that alcohol can be enjoyed responsibly as an adult, will have a positive impact on them in the future.

Kids learn by example. We’re drinking socially, making sure to have non-alcoholic beverages for those who don’t drink, and have lots of healthy treats to eat. It shows the kind of balance that we want our kids to understand. It’s important to Bobby and me that we sit down and talk to them, but I’m a big believer in leading by example. But that doesn’t mean they can get out of a conversation!

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Talking About Underage Drinking

I know conversations with your kids about alcohol (or any grown-up topic) can be so uncomfortable. Especially when they’re young. But I’ve got two teenagers now, and I know those talks can’t wait.

A new survey from Responsibility.org showcases the impact of parents and conversations with kids. The data shows that 36 percent of kids identified their parents as the number one influence on their decision to drink or not to drink alcohol. Wow! I knew these talks were important, but who knew we could be the deciding factor in our kids’ decision to drink!

Kids identified their parents as the first influence on their decision to drink or not to drink alcohol. The second and third most influential sources were peers (22%) and social media (8%).

Safe Warm-Weather Fun

While the whole family is joining in the fun, it’s important to not only talk with your kids about underage drinking and responsible consumption but to show them. Set a good example. Measure out those cocktails. Understand your pour amounts. Make sure everyone at dinner has a drink (non-alcoholic or otherwise), and a few healthy bites to offset the alcohol.

And just for extra safety—make sure your friends and family have a safe ride home! It’s the little things that show children how to make responsible choices and help stop underage drinking!

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