At what age and how can we start talking to our children about alcohol?

In short: the sooner the better , knowing that it is never too late, as long as they have the capacity to understand what we are talking about.

In a slightly more extended way, and focusing on the how, perhaps one can start by talking about other important things such as the skills to set limits, the management of emotions and feelings, the different risks according to age to exposure to other situations (driving, having a profile on social networks…), and then, as they get older, talk about other things such as peer pressure, social skills for interpersonal relationships or assertive communication, until finally introducing specific information about alcohol or the management of problems and conflicts.

In any case, we believe it's important to be clear about the objectives when speaking with them, depending on their prior experience with alcohol. That is, if they haven't yet tried it: reinforce the idea and decision not to consume alcohol, try to delay the age of initiation as much as possible, and work on self-awareness, especially regarding health aspects, particularly those that could be relevant if they do consume alcohol (illnesses or other health conditions, medication that might interact, etc.).

If they've already tried it , or rather, if they already consume it more or less regularly, a harm reduction approach might be more appropriate in this case. Ensuring that, if they decide to consume alcohol, they do so in the least harmful way for themselves and those around them can be a good intervention.