As summer approaches, thousands of teenagers are preparing to descend on holiday locations across the country for Christmas and New Years festivities.

For many, it will be their first time away with friends without parental supervision.  

While these young people are crossing off each day on their calendar with excitement, anxious and nervous parents are coming to terms with sending their child away for the end-of-year celebration.

Volunteer organisation Red Frogs is helping to safeguard a generation of young people at festivals, concerts, university/polytechnic campuses, high school afterballs, sporting matches and New Years locations.

The Red Frogs tips for parents to encouraging safe celebrations: 

1. Have open conversations; talk to your teen about New Years’ and their plans. Be a listening ear and share in their excitement as they prepare to head away.
2. Stock your teen with a heap of pre-made meals. This will make sure they’re having something nutritious that will support their wellbeing throughout the week.
3. Don’t provide your teen with any alcohol. Research has shown that providing young people with alcohol means they are more likely to drink harmfully in their late teens and adult life.
4. Teach them to drink safely. If your teen is over 18, encourage them to buy light beer, not full strength. As this may be the first time your 18 year old is drinking alcohol, it’s important to communicate its effects so they can make responsible decisions
5. Help keep them hydrated. Stock them with slabs of water. Watermelon and electrolyte drinks are helpful too.
6. Arrange some check-in times. Keep communication channels open so your teen knows you are there for them.
7. Remind them to always stay with their friends.
8. Encourage them to call 111 in emergency situations, the official services are here to help. It can be scary for your teen to call emergency services but let them know that first responders have their best interest at heart. 
9. Tell your teen to visit Red Frogs at holiday hotspots Queenstown, Wanaka, Kaiteriteri and Nelson, and summer festivals across the country. In their Red Frogs shirts, the crews will be on hand with water, pancakes and a positive peer presence.

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