Spring Break Safety: Keeping Track of Older Teens

Spring break for older teens often means more independence. Here's how to stay connected without being overbearing.

Have the Conversation Before They Go

Whether they're going with friends or on a school trip, discuss expectations upfront. When will they check in? What's the location sharing agreement?

Agree on Location Sharing Terms

• Location sharing stays on throughout the trip
• You won't constantly monitor—just check occasionally
• They can text if they need extra privacy for a specific reason
• SOS feature is for real emergencies

Set Up Relevant Geofences

Create geofences for:

• The hotel or rental property
• The airport (departure and return alerts)
• Any areas that are off-limits

Trust the System

Once everything is set up, resist the urge to check constantly. The point is peace of mind, not surveillance. Let them enjoy their trip while knowing you can check if you're genuinely worried.

When to Call vs. When to Wait

See them somewhere unexpected? Wait an hour before reacting—there could be a simple explanation. But if something seems truly wrong, trust your instincts and reach out.