Title: A Unique Parenting Approach: Kristen Bell’s Daughters Opt for Non-Alcoholic Beer

Introduction:

In a recent appearance on “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” actress Kristen Bell shared a surprising revelation about her daughters’ beverage choices. Bell, who is married to recovering addict Dax Shepard, revealed that her children have developed a taste for non-alcoholic beer. This blog post explores their unique parenting approach and considers the potential implications of exposing children to non-alcoholic beer at an early age.

Unconventional Tastes:

According to Bell, her youngest daughter, Delta, developed an interest in non-alcoholic beer as a baby. During evening walks, Shepard would have Delta on his chest and enjoy a non-alcoholic beer as they admired the sunset. Delta would occasionally paw at the bottle and even suck on its rim. As Delta grew older, non-alcoholic beer became associated with something special and reminiscent of her daddy.

Ordering Beer at Restaurants:

Bell fondly recalls instances where her daughters requested non-alcoholic beer at restaurants. She acknowledges the potential controversy surrounding this choice but defends her decision, stating that she is not doing anything wrong. Bell maintains that her children’s interest in non-alcoholic beer is innocent and related to their father’s journey of sobriety.

Public Reactions and Perspective:

In 2020, Bell shared a story about Lincoln and Delta sipping on O’Doul’s during their Zoom school sessions. She admitted to briefly worrying about judgment from other parents and teachers before reminding herself that it ultimately doesn’t matter. With a hint of humor, Bell described non-alcoholic beer as “essentially a bubbly juice.” She asserts that there is nothing inherently wrong with it and emphasizes the importance of discussing sobriety with her children.

The Potential Risks:

While Bell and Shepard maintain their open and honest approach with their children, it is essential to consider the potential risks involved in their unconventional parenting decision. Research indicates that early exposure to alcohol, even non-alcoholic beverages, can be a risk factor for adolescent drinking. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism warns against children consuming non-alcoholic liquor due to the potential for them to develop a preference for alcohol flavors, increasing the likelihood of alcohol experimentation at a younger age.

Differing Effects on Adult and Child Bodies:

Non-alcoholic beer typically contains up to 0.5% alcohol, which can have varying effects on different individuals. Laura Kwako, chief of the Treatment, Health Services, and Recovery branch of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, explains that an 8-year-old consuming a non-alcoholic beer would experience effects equivalent to roughly one-third of a standard beer for adults. This small amount could potentially produce a subtle rewarding sensation, establishing positive expectations in the child’s mind.

Maintaining Open Communication:

Bell and Shepard’s commitment to open communication with their children extends beyond discussing their father’s recovery. They advocate for creating a safe space where their children feel comfortable asking any questions. While their parenting approach may not align with traditional practices, they prioritize fostering a strong bond with their kids.

Conclusion:

Kristen Bell’s unconventional approach to parenting, including allowing her daughters to occasionally enjoy non-alcoholic beer, sparks interesting discussions about the possible implications and risks involved. While some critics may raise concerns, Bell remains unapologetic, emphasizing that she is not doing anything wrong. Ultimately, parents must evaluate their own unique circumstances and decide what is best for their children’s development and well-being. If parents want to involve their kids in celebrations involving alcoholic beverages, alternatives like sparkling cider or alcohol-free mocktails can provide a delicious substitution.