Small Talks: Third Quarter 2022 Newsletter

The Small Talks: How WI Prevents Underage Drinking Quarterly Newsletter is published four times a year with information on Wisconsin's underage drinking prevention campaign. Small Talks is a statewide campaign created by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services that encourages adults – especially parents and caregivers – to have short, casual conversations about the dangers of underage drinking with the kids in their lives starting at age 8.

Add talks about alcohol to the back-to-school checklist 

Every school year brings a chance for a fresh start with lots of new opportunities. But it can also bring new pressure to fit in, which can make it a challenge for kids to say "yes" to healthy decisions and "no" to underage drinking. Talk with the kids in your life now and throughout the school year to set expectations for a healthy year and beyond. Here are some tips for your next small talk:

• Discuss your values and share the behaviors you expect.
• Help them advocate for themselves by practicing with them on how to say no to risky behaviors.
• Describe the effects of alcohol on the developing brain.

Looking for more tips? Visit the Small Talks: Start Talking page on the DHS website. 

The beginning of the school year can be an emotional time for kids and caregivers. After all, it’s a transition—and even good changes can be stressful. That’s okay. There are many things you can do to help the kids in your life start the school year strong. Get tips from our partners at Resilient Wisconsin. 

Small Talks store closes September 22, 2022

Time is running out to get Small Talks items shipped to you at no cost. The Small Talks store will close September 22, 2022. This is your last opportunity to get things for yourself, your agency, your community group, and your school. Place your order today! 

Small Talks across Wisconsin

Douglas County The Douglas County Drug Prevention Coalition has created Small Talks packets to hand out to parents and caregivers at school events. The packet includes a small postcard with talk tips, a magnet, a window cling, a fridge lock, and more.

Walworth County

The Walworth County Department of Health and Human Services is using materials provided through the Small Talks store to bring the Small Talks campaign to county residents. Flyers, window clings, cooler door signs, pins, posters, stickers, and yard signs have been posted at their office and at businesses where alcohol can be purchased. Fridge locks were handed out at a National Night Out event this month. A booth featuring Small Talks resources will be setup at the county fair Labor Day weekend.

Share your Small Talks story! What are you doing to promote Small Talks in your community? Share the information with us and you could be featured in the next Small Talks newsletter. Tell us about events and activities or the impact the Small Talks campaign is having in your community. 

Sign up for our Small Talks email list to receive future editions of this newsletter. 

**The next edition of this newsletter will be published in November 2022.**

Do not reply directly to this email message. If you have questions about the Small Talks underage drinking prevention campaign, email the Division of Care and Treatment Services.