A study by Statistics Canada shows that adolescents are practicing safe sex, and schools are doing their part by distributing university and college orientation kits containing condoms. In recent years students have become more open to discussing sex and aren't afraid to talk about it with their schoolmates. Numerous schools such as the University of Waterloo, hold information sessions for teens to talk about their own sexual experiences and learn about sex education. Sex counseling, free vaccinations and condoms, pap tests, and access to birth control are offered at most universities and colleges.
4. "I'll admit, I have a couple of party friends but that's not the only friends I have made at school."
Friends that are bad influences along with peer pressure are issues the majority of parents worry about. There are numerous, diverse students that attend university or college and everyone is different. Some students enjoy going out while others like to stay home. Students who enjoy partying or smoking up do not force others to do what they like. Your child may be offered an invitation to a party or a cigarette, but they may also be asked to join school sports, go on study dates, and volunteer for on-campus societies. There are so many students on campus that it is highly unlikely that your child may only be influenced by one type of person. In the end, it is your child’s choice whether or not they choose to party or study.
5. "Drinking and driving is not cool."
A recent article from Transport Canada states that the amount of teenagers involved in drinking and driving accidents have decreased over the past couple years. In my experience, students are more aware of the dangers of drinking and driving and take safety precautions to avoid themselves and their friends from getting into accidents. In one experience, I went to a party and a friend who was driving asked me to hold onto her car keys since she was planning to drink. Young drivers often feel the responsibility to not drink at a party, especially when they are driving others.
University students are at the age where they are responsible for their own choices. Every student has their limits, and if they do not enjoy drinking or being sexually active then they will avoid it. As a parent it is acceptable to intervene only to a certain extent, but ultimately it is your child in the driver’s seat, and whatever the outcomes, they are accountable for their actions.
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