To not allow DS to drink tea and coffee age 12

[user1474221222]

DS started secondary school in September and recently asked if he could have a cup of coffee as a drink when arriving home.

I've said no but as a child of the 1970's I had my first cup of coffee age 4 after been taught how to make one for my parents

So am I just being unreasonable ?

Make him a really strong espresso, that should put him off for a while

DD (10) had a cup of tea every other day or so. Has done for the past few years.

I'm surprised he likes coffee, as it's quite bitter. Has he drunk it without sugar? I don't let my DD have sugar in her tea.

TBH I'd be more worried about the sugar than the small amount of caffeine.

Nothing wrong with a cup of tea or decaf coffee imo.

Why wouldn't u let him?

I can understand your concern but can't get over the feeling of "but it never did me any harm". What does the research say about caffeine consumption in young kids? I know a few four year olds who'll happily drink a cup of tea!

Not sure why this would be an issue, but if he wants to feel grown up and drink coffee buy him some decaffeinated instant coffee, that should put him off for life.

Oh wow, he is 12 years not 12 months

What's your objection to him having tea and coffee OP?

YABU - I really don't see the issue!

why shouldnt he have a coffee? He is now an adult, drugs wise (check the side of a paracetamol bottle).

In Italy most cafes sell really milky lattes for kids - can he have something like that?

The forbidden fruit will become attractive. I'd let yr DC have some, but not with sugar. No point developing a 'two spoons please' habit which will lead to tooth decay.

My 11yo likes milky decaff coffee. Neither DC like tea, they've never tasted it with sugar as we don't take it.

Tea? Fine. Coffee no. I work with teenagers and the caffeine they consume It messes with iron absorption. And, more importantly for teens, sleep.

I've been drinking iced tea (unsweetened) for as long as I can remember, and our kids have been drinking it since they were little, too. I've been drinking coffee since I was about 6, sneaking sips from my mom's cup. I don't think 12 is too young for coffee/tea.

Why on earth can't he have a coffee - assuming it's not 6-7 cups of espresso every night it surely isn't that serious ?

Wtf - he's 12!!!

Tea contains tannin which can stop kids absorbing vital nutrients from their food.

DD1 (11) had the odd real tea, and some decaff, she tasted a caramel latte the other day but found it too sweet rather than too coffee-ish. I suggested she try a decaff latte next time. DD2 (7) isn't even interested in baby tea.

I'd allow it. One decaf tea or coffee a day really won't make a blind bit of difference.

I don't see the problem with letting him have tea and coffee. Back in the dark ages I went to a boarding school where tea was on offer at breakfast, teatime and evening meals, and coffee on Sunday mornings - and they took children from age 10 upwards. I'm not aware that any of my schoolmates suffered in any way as a result.

Some good old judging going on. I do realise he's not 12 months

Thanks for helpful comments and suggestions Will go with decaf or milky coffee.

Thanks again

The high school ds is going to in September sell tea, coffee and hot chocolate.

it is not 'judging' it is answering your question.....

You're being unreasonable if you have no actual reason for saying no to him. Why wouldn't you allow him tea or coffee, is the question?