Dear Parents and Friends:
Prom and Graduation season is here! This is a very special time in many of our students’ lives. For parents and police, however, this same period is filled with apprehension and fear. This time of year rarely goes by without some kind of teen alcohol or drug incident. As you prepare for these important celebrations I want to remind you to talk with your son or daughter about these safety concerns:
- For students with a provisional driver’s license: Remember that provisional drivers may not drive after 11 pm and risk being pulled over by a police officer if they do. Please arrange for alternative methods of transportation. Remind your child to NEVER get in the car with a driver who has been drinking alcohol or vaping/smoking marijuana…call for a ride.
- It is not a good idea for intoxicated teens to be alone in an Uber.
- Set rules ahead of time if you agree to allow your teen to host a party. Remember PARENTS WHO HOST LOSE THE MOST. It is illegal to serve alcohol to minors on your property.
- Let your child know that you will be checking kids backpacks and water bottles. Also – don’t be shy to mingle with the kids – let them know you are home and watching.
- Remember when you used to make your child’s playdates? Those days are gone but it is still a good idea to ask your child where they are going, who they are going to be with and if the parents are home? Unattended homes are traditionally a target for house parties. Do not leave your house unsupervised, whether you are out a couple of hours or out of town….i.e. dinner, movie, NYC play, party, or Jersey shore trip. Many times parties are hosted without parental consent while adults are not at home.
- Talk to your child about binge drinking. No one is immune to alcohol poisoning. Let them know that if they are with someone who is severely impaired (vomiting, passed out, breathing erratic, skin cold or blue) they should call 911 for help. They will not be charged and they may even save their friend’s life.
- Don’t be shy about talking about drinking, drugs, date rape and other tough subjects to talk about. Remind your daughters and sons about the dangers of sexual abuse and that they always have the right to stand up. It is okay if they get annoyed and want you to stop talking. It’s your job to be the parent.
- Give your child permission to use YOU as an excuse. Remind them if they are ever in a situation that is uncomfortable they can pull out the parent excuse. For example, “I can’t do ……. my parents would be so upset.”
I hope these tips are helpful. It is a daunting time to be raising kids. Communication is key to helping your child navigate this journey into adulthood. Don’t be afraid to say no and to enforce consequences!!!!
Remember – it is not a right but a privilege to attend prom, post parties, graduation parties, etc. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut!
Congratulations to all the parents who have children graduating! Stay safe and be strong.
