When local youth were asked “How old were you when you first had more than a sip or two of beer, wine or hard liquor?” they responded:
- Grades 11-12 Avg age of first use was 13.7
- Grades 9-10 Avg. age of first use was 12.7
- Grades 7-8 Avg. age of first use was 11.6
Source: OASAS 2014-2015 Youth Development Survey
Studies show that when parents talk on a regular basis to their children about the risks of alcohol, drugs and addiction, their children are 50% less likely to suffer from addiction.
Here are tips on how to start the conversation with your child: http://www.samhsa.gov/underage-drinking
