Q. We are going camping with our 14- and 16-year-olds at a campsite where there will be other teens. I remember what I did at their ages, and I would like to protect my children from some of the bad decisions I made. I want them to have fun, but I am concerned also. What can I do to protect them?

“As with everything else the panel has discussed, it starts with communication,” panelist Mike Daniels said. “The first thing the parents need to think about is whether or not they have talked to their teens about alcohol, drugs, the opposite sex, and like issues. If not, then the parents need to find out what information about those issues the boys have gotten from elsewhere.”

“The parents need to communicate their expectations about the issues, and set ground rules,” panelist Erin Stalsitz said.

Daniels cautioned, however, against giving ultimatums. Instead of saying “no drugs and no alcohol,” Daniels said it would be a better approach for the parents to explain to their sons that at the campsite they may be exposed to youths who drink or take drugs. Follow up, Daniels said, by saying, “Underage drinking and taking drugs is not safe, and not legal. You are going to have to make decisions. We hope you make the right ones. ”The boys should also be told that their parents’ number one priority is their safety, Stalsitz continued, adding, “That is why they are all having the discussion.”

In addition to conversation, the panelists offered a number of suggestions for handling the camping situation. Panelist Pam Wallace said, “The parents need to have an awareness of the area surrounding their campsite, and what kids are from what other campsites. The parents also need to have a general idea of where the teens will be going and what they plan on doing, and with whom.“

Daniels said it would help to tell the teens that they will have a lot of time on their hands, and then ask them how they are planning on spending that time. He added that the parents may need the teens to check in physically, not by cell phone, every couple of hours, depending on the circumstances.

“Make your campsite where the kids hang out by encouraging your sons to bring their friends over to your place,” Daniels recommended.

It might be helpful to get together with the other parents to learn what their ground rules are for their kids, Stalsitz said. The parents could work together to come up with ideas for activities, such as a ghost story night or organized hikes. Some activities could include at least one parent going along, she suggested.

Wallace brought up the point that people learn from their mistakes. “Parents need to allow some freedom for their children to make decisions and learn for themselves.”

This week’s team of parenting experts are: Pam Wallace, Program Coordinator, Project Child, a program of Valley Youth House; Erin Stalsitz, casework supervisor, Lehigh County Children and Youth, and Mike Daniels, LCSW, Psychotherapist, CTS.

Have a question? Email: projectchild@projectchildlv.org. The Family Project is a collaboration of the Lehigh Valley Press Focus section and Valley Youth House’s Project Child.