Spring into summer: A perfect time for small talks
Studies have shown that kids are more likely to experiment with alcohol during the months of June and July because they have more free time with no school and they are often not supervised as closely as other times of the year. If you haven't started talking with the kids in your life about the dangers of underage drinking, now is the time to start. Don’t worry; it’s easier than you may think. Get helpful suggestions for tackling tough questions and ideas for getting the conversations started. Still nervous? It's normal. Watch how other parents and caregivers worked through their stage fright and started having small talks. Before you start talking, get the facts on underage drinking in Wisconsin. Two things you should know: kids often sneak alcohol and kids often ask older siblings for alcohol. What can you do about this? First, lock your liquor cabinet and beer fridges. Second, talk with older siblings about the legal and health consequences for purchasing alcohol for their younger siblings. Common places for underage drinking during the summer months include open land, outbuildings, boat docks, and piers.
Coming soon: Resources for role models
Parents and caregivers are part of a group of influential people in the lives of kids. This group also includes coaches, counselors, teachers, and people who work at after-school programs and child care centers. We are working on resources that will give these adults the knowledge and confidence to start having small talks about the dangers of underage drinking with the kids they see as part of their work. These new resources should be published this summer.
Let's get social: Media buy planned
Watch for #SmallTalksWI on your social media feeds later this year. A statewide social media ad campaign is scheduled to begin in August to remind adults of the importance of small talks. Join the campaign right now. Use your social media channels to share information about Small Talks. Check out the Facebook and Instagram posts on the Small Talks: Partner Resources webpage or create your own posts. Tag your posts with #SmallTalksWI.
Order now: New printed materials available
There's more to choose from in the Small Talks materials ordering portal. Check out what's new, then order fact sheets, posters, window clings, and yard signs to use in your community. There is no cost. Place your order today. Supplies of some items are limited. Visit the Small Talks: Partner Resources webpage to see all of the Small Talks promotional materials available for your use.
In the headlines: Recent press clips
AV club: Heard and seen
Heard...Small Talks was featured in the April episode of the Jefferson County Drug Free Coalition's podcast. Listen now!
Heard...Small Talks was mentioned in an advertisement broadcast on WJJQ radio in Tomahawk. Listen now! (Google Drive link)
Seen...Small Talks flyers displayed at the Walgreens in Wisconsin Dells (photo below).
Seen...Small Talks was featured on a billboard in Kaukauna (photo below).
 Tell us (and show us) how you are promoting Small Talks in your community! Email your story today. We may include your information in a future edition of the Small Talks newsletter.
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