As a parent, you can help your teen stay safe by having open conversations and setting clear rules. Informed Families’ Safe Homes, Smart Parties® campaign encourages parents to take simple steps to protect their teens.

Spring break is an exciting time for teens. It’s a break from school, a chance to relax, and an opportunity to spend time with friends. But it also comes with risks like peer pressure, substance use, and online dangers. As a parent, you can help your teen stay safe by having open conversations and setting clear rules. Informed Families’ Safe Homes, Smart Parties® campaign encourages parents to take simple steps to protect their teens. Here are key ways to make spring break safe and fun.

1. Make Your Home a Safe Space

The best way to keep your teen safe is by making sure your home is a secure and supportive place.

• Do not allow underage drinking or drug use at home. Hosting parties with alcohol for minors is illegal and unsafe.

• Talk with other parents to ensure your teen is going to safe, supervised gatherings.

• Plan fun, alcohol-free activities at home to keep your teen engaged and safe.

2. Set Clear Rules & Expectations

Before spring break starts, sit down with your teen and set ground rules.

• Talk about curfews, plans, and who they’ll be with.

• Ask them to check in with you regularly through text or calls.

• If they are traveling, go over safety measures, emergency contacts, and how to handle unexpected situations.

3. Talk About Peer Pressure & Substance Use

Peer pressure is common during spring break. Help your teen feel confident in saying no to risky situations.

• Practice responses they can use if someone offers them alcohol or drugs.

• Encourage them to stay with friends who make smart choices.

• Remind them that underage drinking and drug use can lead to dangerous situations and bad decisions.

4. Teach Online & Social Media Safety

Teens are always online, so it’s important they understand how to use social media safely.

• Explain that once something is posted online, it can’t be erased, even if deleted.

• Warn them not to share their location, which could make them a target for strangers.

• Encourage them to think before posting pictures or videos that could hurt their future.

5. Talk About Safe Transportation

No matter where your teen is, they need a safe way to get around.

• Make sure they have access to safe rides.

• Tell them never to get in a car with someone who has been drinking or using drugs.

• Encourage them to use rideshare apps, public transportation, or a designated driver if needed.

6. Keep Communication Open

Teens need to feel comfortable talking to you. Make sure they know they can reach out for help without fear of punishment.

• Listen to them and let them share their thoughts and concerns.

• Let them know they can call you anytime if they feel unsafe.

• Show support and understanding when discussing tough topics.

7. Join the Safe Homes, Smart Parties® Campaign

Through Informed Families’ Safe Homes, Smart Parties® campaign, parents can take a stand against underage drinking and risky behavior.

• Sign the Safe Homes Pledge to show your commitment to alcohol-free teen gatherings.

• Connect with other parents who also want safe environments for their teens.

• Stay informed on the best ways to keep your teen safe during social events.

Final Thoughts

Spring break should be fun and exciting, but safety comes first. By setting rules, talking openly, and giving your teen the tools to make good choices, you can help them enjoy their time responsibly.

Join Informed Families in promoting Safe Homes, Smart Parties® and help your teen make smart choices this spring break. For more resources, visit Informed Families.