In the IYS, students are asked: "How old were you (if ever) when you first drank (more than a few sips) of alcohol (beer, wine, or liquor)?"
In 2018, 15% of Iowa youth reported being younger than 13 years of age when they first drank alcohol. Also, 16% of 6th graders, 17% of 8th graders, and 9% of 11th graders reported being younger than 13 years of age when they first drank alcohol.
In the IYS, students are asked: "How old were you (if ever) when you first tried marijuana (pot, grass, hash, weed)?"
In 2018, 2% of Iowa youth reported being younger than 13 years of age when they first drank alcohol. Also, 1% of 6th graders,4% of 8th graders, and 3% of 11th graders reported being younger than 13 years of age when they first tried marijuana.