To most students Summer Break simply means time off from school and a time to have fun. Whether it is teaming up with some friends for an exciting road trip, playing a ton of video games, or even partying at a friend’s house where alcohol and other drugs may be present, our teens will find a way to have a good time during summer break.
It is our job as parents and other caring adults to understand the importance of keeping youth safe during summer break where they are at higher risk to experiment with alcohol, and engage in other risky behaviors while under the influence.
Whether we like it or not, summer break can be a very scary time for our students. Time off from school comes with a lot of free time, often without adult supervision. As a result, Summer Break has a high number of alcohol-related injuries and deaths.
Many college students see partying with drugs and alcohol as a way to celebrate summer break, especially those students who are away from home. This can influence younger students to do the same thing.
It is up to parents, teachers, coaches, and community members to encourage youth to stay safe during summer break. It starts with talking to our kids! Explain to them that Summer Break can be a time to have fun but it is still important to make healthy and safe choices. Here are some ideas for parents and other caregivers to consider during Summer Break:
- Encourage your kids to stay busy with positive activities, to minimize the chances for getting in trouble.
- Connect with your kids. Plan a family activity such as a trip to the zoo, amusement park or any other fun family attraction will make for a safe, fun and memorable time.
- Offer wages for jobs to be done around the house.
- Make a schedule with your student of things to accomplish, such as college applications, reading books, or training for sports or summer camps.
Remember, if you see something, say something. Students can go to the district website to enter a quick tip.Stay safe and enjoy your summer break.