The 4th of July is full of celebration and cheer – honoring our country’s freedom and spending quality time with family and close friends. Is your teen ready to handle the responsibility of his increasing freedom as he grows? It can be a dangerous holiday for teen drivers travelling to and from events. Statistics show that the 4th of July is the deadliest holiday on the road.
It is important to begin having conversations with your teenager before she heads out for the holiday weekend. To ensure her safety and that of others, here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
MONITOR THEIR BEHAVIOR – Teenagers who know that their parents are always watching are less likely to try to sneak a drink when they think no one is looking or paying attention. One of the main reasons teens who don’t use drugs and alcohol give for their choice is that they do not want to disappoint their parents. We adults have considerable influence and our involvement matters.
KNOW WHERE YOUR TEENS ARE GOING – Set ground rules that your teen is to check in with you every hour; and if he does not, set an alarm on your phone and call him. Keep the communication open and frequent to discourage him from being tempted to fold under peer pressure, especially if he is driving.
EDUCATE YOURSELF – Be at least as knowledgeable as your kids regarding the substances they might be exposed to and the risks they might encounter.
SET UP A CODE WORD – Sometimes your kids can be in a situation where they are around friends who are drinking and doing drugs. Set up a code word so your child can call you to have you pick her up without feeling embarrassed by having her friends overhear her conversation with you. Even setting up a simple texting code such as 1-2-3 can allow your child to feel safe contacting you.
HAVE A FAMILY MEETING – Be the parent, not the friend. Have a prevention talk with them before they venture out. Set clear expectations for behavior and safety, as well as what the consequences will be if the rules are not followed. Allow your teen to contribute her ideas about the topic. Actively and respectfully listen to her point of view, but know that ultimately, as the leader of the family, you have the responsibility for the final say on family values and safety. Follow up to be sure your child is meeting your expectations, and take action right away if she is not.
Continue to be the parent and keep the line of communication open. Your children are smart, so remind them to make good decisions and encourage those good behaviors.
Stay safe this weekend, and have a wonderful, patriotic Independence Day!
