It might only be May, but hundreds of Year 12 students are already planning their schoolies week.
Experts at Australian parenting website raisingchildren.net.au say opening the lines of communication – and keeping them open – is an important way to connect with your teenager during, and in the lead up to, the party season.
“It’s normal and understandable to have mixed feelings about your teenage child going away to schoolies without adult supervision and to be concerned about their safety and wellbeing,” Executive Director Associate Professor Julie Green said.
“But it is possible to find a balance between giving them independence and keeping them safe.
Prof Green said an important start is to have a clear understanding of your child and your own expectations are.
Other practical tips for parents and teens to discuss include:
– Ensuring your teen registers as a school-leaver with a schoolies organisation or local council
– The importance of always staying with friends and looking out for each other
– Ensuring you have their accommodation details and the phone details of their friends
– Preventing drink spiking by not letting drinks out of your sight
– Understanding that alcohol and substance use don’t mix with swimming, heights and arguments
– The need for your teen to have a phone with them at all times.
