To Parents and Guardians of Youth. Now that schools are out and summer is starting it is important to consider how we can support our youngsters to enjoy themselves this summer. Even if this is usually an enjoyable time for many, serious incidents can occur, including alcohol and substance use, sexual violations and other abuse.
We would like to ensure that our youth is well prepared to take safe and responsible choices this summer. Here are a few things we would like you to discuss with your kids:
No School-Sponsored Summer Events: Please note that during the summer, there are no official school-sponsored events. However, organized activities involving youth sometimes occur without adult supervision. Parents and youngsters may mistakenly think these events are school-sanctioned, but they are not. Most of these activities are independent and not overseen by the schools. If such events are announced, there won’t be any responsible adults present to ensure safety. Some children might be under the influence of alcohol or other substances, and there’s a risk that these situations could end badly.
Open Communication: If your children plan to attend events or gatherings, it’s essential to discuss their intentions and plans openly.
Awareness of Risks Related to Alcohol and Other Substances: When discussing plans for events or gatherings, emphasize the importance of understanding the risks associated with alcohol and other substances. It matters that parents or guardians encourage their children to be cautious and make informed decisions.
Personal Safety: If young people plan to attend events, it is essential to know where they are, with whom, and how they intend to get there and back home to increase their safety and help you support them. Emphasize staying together as a group and looking out for each other. Remind them never to leave drinks unattended and not to accept drinks from strangers. Ensure they have an emergency plan, including knowing whom to contact and where to seek help.
Neyðaráætlanir
Gætið þess að börnin hafi áætlun um neyðartilvik, þar með talið að vita hverja á að hafa samband við og hvar á að leita aðstoðar. Hvetjið þau til að hafa símann fullhlaðinn, vera með 112 appið í símanum, nýta netspjall 112 eða hringja í 112 í neyð.
Consent and Boundaries: Talk to your children about boundaries and the significance of mutual consent. Ensure they understand the importance of respecting others’ personal boundaries.
Safety at Events: If your children plan to attend events, gatherings, or festivals this summer, discuss safety measures. This includes staying together, designating meeting points if they get separated, knowing exit routes, and identifying nearby security or police personnel. Do you know what to do if you witness violence?
By discussing these things with our kids we can work together on making thes summer safe and fun, without violence or abuse. If you need to, you can always contact Child Protection Services or the Police directly or through 112.
Encourage the youngsters to keep their phones charged, have the 112 emergency app installed, use the 112 online chat, or call 112 in case of emergencies.
Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable summer!
