Is it Ever Okay to Get Drunk Around Your Kids?

I've been known to have a few drinks from time to time while hanging with family and friends. I have four children ranging in age from 7 to 14. I work a full-time job, pay bills, cook healthy meals and exercise every day. When Friday rolls around, it's my time to sit back and relax with a glass of wine or mixed drink, but does that mean I have the right to get drunk around my kids every weekend? Some parents would answer no, but I have a different idea about drinking, parenthood and life.

There's a difference between drinking and getting drunk. Anyone who enjoys an evening drink understands the light-headed feeling that comes with a few ounces of good alcohol. I don't know one parent who drinks just because they love the taste of alcohol; it's the buzz and release from life's expectations that lures parents in every time. Drinking to let go is one thing, but drinking to get drunk to the point you cannot stand is another. If you know you're going to be drinking a lot, get a baby sitter for the night.

Being honest about your current condition is important. If I know I've had too much to drink and I'm sliding from tipsy to full-blown drunk, I tell my husband it's time to go. Leaving a party early is much better than stumbling around your kids or, worse yet, throwing up all over the place with your kids watching. Once home, I kiss the kids goodnight and I retire to the solitude of my bedroom.

No parent is perfect, so plan for everything and let nothing come as a surprise. It's Friday night and I've had the worst week of my life. I'm exhausted, stressed and in need of some adult interaction and a few good drinks. If I know I'm going to spend the evening drinking with friends, I pack a small bag with clothes and toothbrushes. Though drinking around my kids may not be the best idea in the world, I would rather stay put drunk than drive home and risk their lives and mine.

Keep your wits and don't give in to peer pressure. You've had a few too many and your teenage daughter asks for a taste of your drink - what do you do? The immediate thought in your sober condition is to say no, but what stops you from saying yes when you've had too much to drink. Never drink to the point that you can't make good decisions that protect your children.

Parents who drink shouldn't have to give up nights of fun and adult interaction just because they have kids. Not all parents can afford a babysitter and sometimes families like to get together for a few drinks while reminiscing about old times. If you're going to get drunk, just be prepared for the situation.

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