Parents effective teachers on moderate drinking, finds report

Children who learn about alcohol in the home from an early age receive positive messages about drinking in moderation, according to new research. A report released today by the Universities of Leeds and Manchester shows that parents are the most important influence on young children's - aged 5 to 12 - attitudes towards alcohol. Parents, it finds, are largely successful in educating children about the social pleasures and risks of drinking at home. However, it also suggests, children are less aware of the other issues surrounding alcohol consumption including potential health risks. The findings have important implications for bodies that currently provide guidance to parents on how to talk to their children about alcohol. The researchers also suggest that alcohol education in schools could be improved to complement the support that children receive at home. Lead author of the report Professor Gill Valentine, from the University of Leeds, said: "Our research shows how important it is to open up a frank and honest dialogue about alcohol with children from an early age.