For many college students, spring break promises fun and relaxation away from the stressful demands of school. This also can represent a time for risky behaviors that could result in undesirable consequences. Therefore, now is a good time for you to openly communicate about the facts surrounding spring break safety. It also is a great time to discuss expectations for responsible decision-making and planning.
If your student has travel plans for spring break, below are seven tips you may want to share:
- Make sure your student has developed a budget and knows how shared expenses will be handled.
- When renting, make sure each student who is staying with a group signs the contract, sharing the responsibility for cost and liability.
- Make sure your student has family contact numbers for everyone on the trip, in case of an emergency.
- Remind your student to keep the lodging address in their wallet and to make certain that doors are locked for personal safety and protection of property at all times.
- Discuss going out in groups and staying together when students are with new acquaintances, while also being alert to surroundings.
- Discuss your expectations regarding alcohol and remind them to be aware of what they are drinking, if they choose to do so.
- Remind your student to have a plan for getting to a safer place in case they ever feel uncomfortable with what is going on around them.
If your student needs support before, during or after the break, remind them that Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is always available at 402-472-7450.
More details at: https://caps.unl.edu/