“Talk. They Hear You.”

For many kids and teens, summer means fun and relaxation. However, the freedom of the summer months can mean an increased risk for underage drinking. In fact, the average first use of alcohol by young people in the United States peaks in June and July.

As the school year ends and summer begins, parents may have more time to connect with their children and more opportunities to have meaningful talks. SAMHSA’s app “Talk. They Hear You.” can help parents prepare for one of the most important conversations they may ever have. This free app, available through the App Store^SM, Google Play™, the Windows^® Store, and Windows^® Phone Store, features an interactive simulation that uses avatars to help parents practice bringing up the topic of alcohol, learn the questions to ask, and get ideas for keeping the conversation going.

The app is part of SAMHSA’s “Talk. They Hear You.” Underage Drinking Prevention National Media Campaign, which encourages parents and caregivers to talk with children early about the dangers of alcohol. Access additional resources and information about the campaign and underage drinking prevention.