Alcohol consumption by youth in the United States

Alcohol is a drink that adults can have, but it's not good for kids to have until they're older. In the United States, the legal age for drinking alcohol is 21 years old. This is because alcohol can be dangerous for kids who are still growing and developing.

When kids have alcohol, it can affect their brains and bodies in negative ways. They might have trouble thinking clearly, making good decisions, and moving around properly. They might also feel sick or dizzy.

Some kids might try to drink alcohol because they think it's cool or because they want to fit in with their friends. But drinking alcohol when you're not supposed to can be harmful, and it's not worth the risk.

That's why parents and teachers talk to kids about the dangers of drinking alcohol before they're old enough. They explain how drinking can hurt kids and how it's important to wait until they're grown up to have alcohol.

If you're a kid and someone offers you alcohol, it's okay to say no. It's also okay to talk to a grown-up you trust, like a parent or teacher, if someone is pressuring you to drink alcohol. Remember, it's important to stay safe and healthy as you grow up.