Alcohol has been around for 4000 years. The Majority of people who drink, drink responsibly. Throughout much of Europe, families see alcoholic beverages the same as other foodstuffs and many of these cultures have low rates of alcohol problems. And while parents may feel they can do little about the power of outside influences on their children, in reality they have tremendous power to influence their children in the home. The best way to learn about responsible drinking is by example. When relaxing after a days work-share a sip of beer with your child should he or she ask. When having a glass of wine with dinner let your child have a small watered down quantity. Try providing them with favorable circumstances to practice drinking at home. Some people believe that ignorance leads to abstinence... common sense and communications are still the best formula.