There is no age considered “normal” for a child to try an alcoholic beverage. Some parents allow their children to try a little alcohol with them on special occasions. Others prefer not to. Some research shows that drinking alcohol at an early age increases the likelihood of alcohol-related problems occurring at a later stage. Other research shows that young people who try alcohol at home - with parents setting a good example - are more likely to consume alcohol responsibly and moderately.
The decision whether and under what circumstances your child will drink alcohol at home or with you is clearly yours. But whatever you decide, stick to your decision firmly. Also, make sure your child understands why drinking alcohol at an early age is dangerous. Children should also be aware that in Cyprus legislation prohibits the purchase or consumption of alcohol by a person under the age of seventeen, while similar legislation applies in other countries. Just because adults drink at home doesn't mean they can automatically do the same thing, and they should understand that.