When our children are teens, they prefer going places without us and they enjoy spending time with their friends much more than with their family. There’s nothing we can do about it. The sooner you accept that, the better for you. So, if they want to take a road trip just with their friends, there are no reasons to forbid it. In fact, a trip like this might even instill maturity in your teen. However, no matter how cool of a parent you are and how many things you allow them, every parent is always worried about their child, because so many bad things happen today that we can’t just sit back and relax. Yet, there are certain ways not to worry too much and if you follow the tips below, you will be able to survive your teen’s first road trip without you without a problem!
Make sure they pack everything they need
Just because you won’t be a part of this trip, it doesn’t mean you won’t help with the packing. As a parent, you probably have no intention of letting your child go anywhere knowing they don’t have everything they might need. Toiletries, some snacks, clothes for all types of weather – you can even help them make a list of what they need. Plan it in advance, so that you can buy certain items if you have to. Also, double-check if you’ve included everything.
Have vehicle insurance
We know that today a big number of teens love being adventurous, so maybe your kid decides to do something bold, like go on the trip by motorcycle because this is a pretty venturesome action. If you let them, you need good motorcycle insurance coverage for accidents, natural disasters, fire and theft or any damage to a certain property. These issues are really rare and hopefully, nothing bad will happen neither to your child nor the vehicle, but you will probably sleep a bit better knowing you have good insurance. Or better yet, you can rent a party bus for your teen’s trip to Clearwater.
Inform them well on how to stay safe
We can’t see the things our children do when we aren’t with them, but we can do our best to teach them what’s right and what’s wrong, hoping they will do what’s best for them in all situations. Before the trip, be sure to inform your child on how to avoid getting into any trouble. Teach them to be aware of their surroundings. Tell them things like they should stick to the group and be nice and friendly to avoid fights. Have conversations with them and tell them you believe in them. They need to learn how to be responsible and to act like grown-ups.
Stay in touch while they are away
Luckily for us, today the technology enables us to stay in touch with anyone no matter how far they are. So, wherever your child plans to go, knowing that you two can stay in touch all the time is such a relief. They can send you pics and messages, so it will feel like you are with them even when you’re not.
Remind them to be wise with the money
Last but not the least, it’s a good idea to provide your child with a source for emergency funds (a debit card or a pre-paid credit card), but remind them to spend the money wisely. They should be responsible with it and spend it only on necessities. Also, if they are bringing a lot of cash, they should be careful with it. They can pack it in different places and they should always keep a close eye on it.
Allowing your teen to have a road trip without you for the first time is not easy at all, but it can be rewarding because they can learn how to be mature and responsible, making you proud. If they ask for something like this, let them. However, tell them everything they need to know and make sure they pack all the things they need. Don’t forget the insurance for your vehicle as well! Now that you know all of this, you are ready to survive your kid’s road trip.