Many children must deal with alcoholic parents, but alcoholism is a difficult subject to discuss with them. Start the conversation through Wishes and Worries: Coping with a Parent Who Drinks Too Much Alcohol by the Centre For Addiction And Mental Health. The story itself introduces readers to Maggie, whose alcoholic father ruins her birthday party. Written by professionals, this colorfully illustrated book covers many aspects of children in this situation, such as the strong negative emotions they might feel and worries about their own future.

Buy Wishes and Worries: Coping with a Parent Who Drinks Too Much Alcohol by the Centre For Addiction And Mental Health here!

 

 

Discussion Questions:

1. Have you ever felt the way Maggie does? Which of her thoughts have you had yourself?
2. When were you most upset for Maggie?
3. What would you have done if you were at Maggie’s birthday party?

Activities:

1. Write down what you would say to Maggie at school after her birthday party. How would you cheer her up?
2. Have your parents ever acted strangely because they were drinking at a family gathering? Tell them how their behavior made you feel.