You, your child and alcohol
In Northern Ireland young people under 18 aren’t allowed to buy or drink alcohol in public. But this doesn’t stop some children getting and drinking alcohol. By talking to your child, you can help them understand the health risks of alcohol so they develop a healthy attitude to alcohol.
The law
There are strict laws on drinking alcohol in Northern Ireland.
You should check that you aren't breaking the law by allowing your child to drink.
Promoting a responsible attitude to alcohol
Parents and carers have an important role in showing their children a responsible attitude to alcohol.
As children grow up, their attitude towards alcohol will be shaped by what they see, hear and experience at home.
For more information, go to:
What parents of younger children can do
The following tips might help your child develop a healthy attitude to alcohol as they grow up.
If your child is curious about alcohol, talk to them about it. Tell them about both the negative and social sides of drinking,
Make sure young children don't drink alcohol by accident or without your permission. If you have alcohol at home, keep it out of reach.
If you drink, set a good example and drink in moderation. It will help your child develop a sensible attitude to alcohol.
Respect the law when it comes to young people and alcohol.
Don't give alcohol to your child if they are underage.
What parents of older children can do
It's difficult to know when to let teenagers drink.
Some parents may feel that giving their child a small amount of alcohol in their early teens will give them a responsible attitude to alcohol, but there is no scientific evidence to support this.
If a child starts drinking early, there is a higher risk of developing serious alcohol-related problems when they're older.
If your child has started drinking, you should:
- set clear boundaries for your child and be consistent about them
- encourage your child to stick to lower-strength brands and not to drink too quickly
- talk to your child about alcohol
- try not to overreact if your child drinks against your wishes, or drinks too much
- explain how you feel and encourage them to talk if they drink excessively
- agree rules on alcohol at parties and be around if your child has a party at home
- if your child is going to drink, give them starchy food (like bread or pasta) so they won't be drinking on an empty stomach
- remove temptations at home (especially spirits)
- make sure your child has a way of getting home safely at night
Alcohol units and recommended weekly limits
Drinking moderate amounts of alcohol doesn't often cause any serious problems.
However, drinking too much can be harmful.
It’s important that you and your child know what the recommended limits are and keep an eye on how much they're drinking.
Further information on the alcohol units, medical guidelines and advice on single drinking sessions are available at:
Getting involved in anti-social behaviour
One in ten young people who drink alcohol end up in trouble with the police. They can get involved in anti-social or criminal behaviour, such as:
- fights
- damaging property
- causing annoyance in a community
- Preventing involvement in crime
- If your child is arrested and charged