Tips for Parents: Teen Safety
Providing a safe and open home environment so that teens are able to talk about their problems freely and in a non-judgemental way will go a long way in developing a good rapport between parents and teen.
1. Talk.
Talk often with your teen and set a tone of openness. Talking openly and directly will let your teen know that it’s okay to talk to you when they have questions. If your teen comes to you with concerns or questions, make time to listen and talk to them.
Starting the conversation: It is always good to have something to get a conversation going. If you are watching TV or looking at an article on a particular issue about abuse, you can open it up to your teen to ask what he/she is thinking about it. What would they do in this sort of situation, who would they call etc. Don’t be afraid to ask your teen questions to know what they are thinking, or their friends are thinking.
If it’s a big topic, discuss part of it at a time, and then say that you will come back to it later. It’s ok, to say you don’t have all the answers. Discuss together what to do in certain situations and feelings around it. Find out and listen to what your teens’ friends are up to and what they think as that may have an influence on your teen.
Confront suspicions in a healthy and non threatening way and find the time to listen when your teen wants to talk.
Make sure that your teen knows who to call if they are in an uncomfortable or dangerous situation. Discuss the meaning of a trusted adult and who that might be. Have phone numbers at hand for who to contact in emergencies if they are out and need help. Talk with your teen about how to handle uncomfortable situations with peers and with adults. Teach them how to speak up about what is and isn’t okay with them.
Your teen should know that s/he has the right to speak up if they are uncomfortable in any situation. Let them know that if they are in a situation where they feel their emotional or physical safety is or has been compromised, that they can come to you to talk about it and that it is okay to say “no” even to adults they know and family members if they feel unsafe.
Implement Internet safety protocols and parental controls through platforms such as the Google Family Safety Center. Even teens can benefit from set guidelines for who they can talk to online and what information can and should (or shouldn’t) be shared. For instance, teens should be cautious when leaving status or away messages online and when using the "check-in" feature on Facebook or Foursquare. Provide consistent and clear expectations for your teen. Be involved in your teen’s life. Know his/her friends and parents. Know where your teen is going if it is a party or to someone’s house. Make contact with the parent ahead of time and check on who will be there, will it be chaperoned etc.
Educate yourself about the warning signs of childhood sexual abuse. Know what to look for, and the best way to respond. Educate yourself on what sexting is and ways to educate your teen to minimize risk. Connect with other parents and attend informational sessions at school when offered.