Subsequently, it was that family’s child that ended up drunk … and lying on the driveway.

It wasn’t a pretty picture – and thankfully the child ended up being ok – but what happened clearly illustrated the powerful role we have as parents. In fact, parents are the biggest influence on kids’ decisions about drinking, and that influence is growing.

For the past 20 years, the GFK Roper Youth Report has examined the influence parents have on their children. This year’s report shows a “24 percent increase in parents’ influence since 1991.”

As parents and role models, we hold great responsibility. Our actions and conversations with our children provide the tools and examples that help guide them to positive decision-making.

To learn more about the stages of parenting, visit the Parenting Approach section of our website.