YOUR CHILDREN Teenagers going out at night. What’s the risk? How can parents guarantee their children’s safety when they go out to night clubs? There’s no way to prevent kids from being exposed to violence. Sooner or later, they will ask you to go out at night with their friends. The best way to minimize the risks is to prepare them to this moment as soon as possible. Try to talk to them when you feel it’s time to. Do not highlight the risks and do not over advise them. Talk to them naturally and informally. Your points of view and explanations must be consistent and well understood. Education starts at home Other important aspects are the moral and lawful behaviors of your children. Each family has principles, values , rules, but it’s essential for parents and kids to have and understanding about the consequences of some probable illegal acts children may commit, as: use of drugs, use of alcoholic drinks, fights,etc. It is necessary to make them aware of some awkward situations and teach them how to overcome them and why they must avoid them. Who takes me to a night club today? Going to and leaving from pubs and night clubs is always a risky moment, depending on the place they are going to. So it is advisable that parents pick up their children wherever they are. If they are in groups, it has to be decided which parents should be in charge of transporting them. Also, a confident professional could be contracted to do this job. It’s part of parents’ duty to be present or available 24 hours a day. Cell phones are a good way to keep in touch with your children. If they make new friends or go to new places, it’s important for parents to know them too. Precaution is the most efficient way families can have to avoid risks and information is the most crucial element to security. If it is possible, parents must go to places previously to check the structure of the place, neighborhood and its “fame”. Concerning to new friends, information could be given by teachers, old friends, and principally by your children!