I just read all the posts about traveling in Europe and wondered if anyone could weigh in on this scenario? My 16 yr. old daughter would like to go to Italy in September for 9 days with her high school. There are 15 students going with 4 chaperones. They are going to the town where her Italian teacher grew up and each student will stay with a host family. We hosted a student in Sept/2008 from that same town and it was a great experience. Now that it is time to make the decision for her to go my husband is quite apprehensive about letting her go. He is concerned about saftey issues, supervision at night.etc. Any opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Mary
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23642 posts
Don't know exactly what you are concerned with but our son did exactly the same thing for a whole summer with his German teacher. It was a mixed group and there were no problems and no chaperons other than the teacher. His German teacher had done this for many years and knew how to control teenagers. It was an excellent experience. Only 9 days with four chaperons should be more than safe. Let her go. Show some confidence. In two years she will be in college with no chaperon.
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12315 posts
She will have a great time. She will be chaperoned. Your husbands issues should be discussed with the teacher before the trip. I used to chaperone my son's marching band. They were great kids and we had very few problems (none serious).
Most 16 year old girls are much better behaved in public than at home but a piece of advice from someone who has been there (and another daughter getting there). You will never get her attention like when she wants something. This is a good time to have a talk if one is needed.
Posted by
West Coast, California, USA
485 posts
My son went on 2 school-sponsored trips in high school: Spain and Germany/Austria. School trips are usually well-chaperoned and organized. Having the students stay with host families is an added bonus. Are the students staying 2 to a family? As a parent, that would make me feel better.