[Melias farm]

I am not sure why nobody has so far stated the obvious.... if you as the parent of an 11 yo purchase brewing equipment for him you are breaking the law....


How can anybody even suggest that he starts with

My family aren’t from England. Our culture is different. We are happy for kids to have watered down (or very laminaided down) alcohol. Only if I give it to him.
It is legal in the uk for it to be sold to me and for him to make it and consume a small amount.




He’s finishing fermenting his beer now. We are buying wine next. He’s loving it.
Thank you everyone for for advice

[doganjo]

If you live in another country then you must follow the law of that country.

I don't know where you live.

However, if you live in the UK you must follow the law of the UK which I detailed in my previous post.

Either way, , that doesn't change my last paragraph -

viz
I agree, it would be unwise and irresponsible to allow an 11 year old to brew an alcoholic substance.

There are plenty of other things in science that he can safely play with and wine and beer are not two of them

JMHO as a mum and grannie

[suzi]

Thank you for the replies.

I really didn’t mean to creat a stir about buying this for him.

He isn’t drinking any of it. He simply wanted to try doing it.
Denying a child a learning opportunity in my eyes is insane in my eyes.
He’s moved into making vinegars now. He’s made about 100 bottles of beer. He loved making it. Watching the chemical reactions. He’s smelt the result but knows I won’t allow him to drink it (even though at home it IS legal).
His adult brother and myself have tried it and can honestly say it’s lovely.
He’s making apple cider vinegar now. He won’t be drinking that either 😂

Personally I believe I’m giving  kids the opportunity to be responsible. He can learn the process of beer. Realise it’s fun and not a huge deal.
I was brought up having a sip then watered down glass of something like wine. In now rarely touch anything other than water or weak squash.

Whatever people views on this are it works for my family

Thank you for your help. I bought a fantastic kit that he’s loved doing

[harmony]

He's clearly had an enjoyable learning experience and whether it is appropriate or not is, as you say, down to individuals opinion. You are obviously supervising him and have laid down some rules so it has worked for you and your family.


I wouldn't however agree with your statement about "denying a child a learning experience is insane". That is a broad sweeping statement and actually some experiences definitely are not appropriate for children.