People think I will be anti-alcohol with my kids, given I spend all day coaching and supporting people to quit drinking. But it’s not the case. I’m not anti-alcohol; I am pro sharing of facts around alcohol.

If my children are going to drink alcohol when they become adults, then I want to ensure they have a healthy relationship with it. And the best way to do this is through information and education.

I grew up in a house where alcohol was prevalent at every social occasion and appeared to be the only way to have fun as an adult. I saw alcohol used as a way to numb emotions, as “reward” for a heavy working week and as being just what you did every time you saw your friends. For me, it wasn’t a matter of if I would start drinking, it was a matter of when.

Sarah Rusbatch, pictured, wants to make sure her kids will never think “Mum can’t find out about this”. Credit: Composite image by Maria Ercegovac

So, here’s how I talk to my kids about........

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