Have you got a child finishing school this year? Chances are they'll be celebrating and if they are heading to South West Leavers, we've got some tips to ease your mind.
The Leavers celebration is seen as a rite of passage for many WA students. While a lot of us would love to keep our kids safe and sound at home, this isn't always possible. That being said, the Leavers Strategy aims to create a safe environment for the thousands of students descending on a town.
The Leavers Strategy brings together services that aim to keep your child safe and supported during the week. These support services include the Police, St John's Ambulance, Red Frogs Australia and many more (for a full list, visit the Leavers website). This means that there are over 500 volunteers and paid workers who willingly help and support throughout the week, from Leavers wristband purchasing locations, their accommodation and the Entertainment Zone at night.
Knowing that there will be support on the ground, some of the things you can do to help and prepare your teenager include:
Staying in touch: Even though your child might not phone to check in regularly, we'd encourage you to set up a call at least once during the week for you to chat! A phone call could put your mind at ease (and theirs as well).
Help them pack: The excitement of the impending Leavers celebration can be tremendous. The best thing that you can do to support your child is to help them prepare. Make sure to send them down with some nutritious food that is quick and easy to cook up. Also, warm clothes are a must - remind your child that it gets cold down there!
Have the important conversations: Don't be afraid to have a frank conversation about what they expect from Leavers. This conversation can (and should) touch on alcohol and drugs, safe sex, and travel. The more open you are to discuss these topics, the less they might hide from you and be willing to call if things go wrong.
For more practical tips and tricks, head to the Red Frogs Australia website.
Hayden Glass
Red Frogs WA Coordinator
Stay connected
Red Frogs Australia
Hayden Glass
Leavers WA