Tips For Youth Trips

Spring is here and children's field trips are in full swing.   

Many schools or community groups are visiting lots of interesting places like Colonial Williamsburg (pictured above). 

I’m already hearing from businesses where youth will be staying and visiting. They want to make sure there’s enough security on hand.

If your child is going on a field trip, helping to keep them safe is key. You and your child should discuss the following before the trip.

1. Know the rules of the trip. Make sure you are clear about what those sponsoring the trip expect of your child. If you aren’t confident about your child’s ability to follow the rules, for any reason, don’t let the child go.

2. Discuss with your child your expectations regarding behavior. Make your child a partner in the experience by discussing details and behavior expectations in advance. Make sure the child wants to take the trip and understands that following the rules is required.

3. Tell your child what adult is in charge. Your child must respect the adults who are responsible for the trip. Make sure the child can verbalize their feelings with authority figures, instead of fighting or bursting into tears. Also make sure the child can recognize inappropriate behavior, from adults or older children, and can comfortably say “no” if necessary. 

If you’re a security professional who works a youth trip, remember that you are part of the care team for these children. You must connect with the responsible adults, be approachable, and remain professional at all times.

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I’ve got more security tips for professionals and individuals in my book Rent-A-Cop Reboot, and on the Leumas Publishing YouTube Channel. Check them out!