As many
teens prepare for a week-long recess - from school, structured activities, and supervision
- many parents are on edge because Spring Break can lead teens to engage in risky
behaviors like drinking or drug use. In fact, research shows that unsupervised teens are
more likely to engage in risky behaviors, and are three times more likely to use marijuana
or other drugs than teens who are supervised by a parent.[1]
Parents can still keep an eye on their teens during these unsupervised times and help keep
their kids safe and drug-free. You can set clear rules in advance, monitor their
activities when you can't be with them, and reinforce the importance of making smart
choices.
Get tips for monitoring your
teen's free time.
Making smart choices online
Some teens may stay connected during Spring Break by using their cell phones to take
photos or video which can then get posted on social networking sites like YouTube or
Facebook; but there are serious downsides. A recent survey indicates that six percent of
teens who use social networking sites say someone has posted an embarrassing picture of
them online without their permission.[2]
Parents need to remind teens that unwanted pictures or video taken during Spring Break can
negatively impact their future.
Learn more about teens and technology.
[1] YMCA of
the USA, After School for America's Teens Survey, 2001
[2] Pew Internet & American Life Project, Parents and Teens Survey,
"Cyberbullying and Online Teens." Oct-Nov 2006. |
