I know it is legal for 16 year olds to have certain alcoholic drinks with meals if an adult orders them, but is it actually common for 16 and 17 year olds to drink in pubs/restaurants in the UK? Would it be odd for a parent to order their child an alcoholic drink?
Posted by
Nashville, TN, USA
795 posts
I have seen it a lot but never done it as my husband and I don't drink alcohol and don't want to encourage our kids to begin any bad habits. What happens when you get home and your kid wants to illegally drink?
Posted by
San Antonio TX, United States
2393 posts
I think only you know your kids best. If you think a small glass of wine with a meal while on vacation would be special treat for your kids why not. It can be a great bonding moment telling your kids you recognize they are responsible young adults and not kids anymore. I think teaching kids about alcohol responsibly is a great thing.
Posted by
Oxford, United Kingdom
5467 posts
Only beer, wine and cider are legal so don't have G&Ts all round.
Yes it is nothing out of the ordinary, but no one is going to be surprised if they aren't having alcohol either. Don't forget the children could have been legally having the odd drink at home since the age of 5.
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
Better to have some of your first alcoholic drinks be legal, in an appropriate social setting , and with parents acting as proper role models. Responsible drinking is something that is so important to model and so important to learn. The US doesn't get this very well.
Pam
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32363 posts
april,
This should provide all the answers on drinking ages.....
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/6598867.stm
If your children have been allowed small amounts of beer or wine at home, I'd certainly allow that with a meal at a Pub. Having a drink with dinner under adult supervision may demonstrate responsible drinking habits.
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
Although it maybe legal to drink non-spirits with a meal, most parents here don't encourage drinking alcohol and therefore would buy a soft drink for those under 18.
It is illegal for under 18s to have alcohol that isn't served with a meal.
Posted by
1262 posts
In my opinion if they want to try a cider or glass of wine and you are modeling good behavior towards alcohol the kids can learn from you how to behave responsibly. We need more of that In the US.