Your Child’s Health and Safety

 

Your foremost concern is that you child stays safe and healthy while they’re abroad. Although your child will have support from you, it is important hat they take personal responsibility for their health and safety while studying abroad. There is increase risk for illness and dangerous situation is your child doesn’t take responsibility for their health and safety.

Your child should take care of both their physical and mental health before, during, and after their study abroad experience. Whether your child has dietary restrictions or a disability, it is important that their institutions (for college students) and program coordinators are aware of any health conditions so that your child can be accommodated. It is also a good idea for your child to let people like their roommates know about their medical conditions, so that they will be able to help in case of emergency.

Follow the links below for suggestions on how your child can protect himself/herself while abroad.

• What do you know about the country where your student is going to study? What is the political and social climate in that country? Get answers to these question and learn more about how to Research Your Child’s Host Country

 

• What are steps you and your child can take before they ever leave to ensure that they stay healthy while abroad? Learn more tips about maintaining your child’s Health and Safety Abroad. Additionally for up to date information on country-specific health conditions and travel health information, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's travel website.

 

• The local laws of the country your child will study in will differ in varying degrees from U.S. laws. For a smooth study abroad experience it’s important that your child follow the law. Learn more aboutFollowing the Law Abroad

 

• No parent wants to think of their child doing illegal drugs abroad. Unfortunately each year hundreds of student find themselves in legal trouble abroad due to illegal drug use or distribution. Talk to your students about Drug Use Abroad

 

• One of the best ways for your child to stay safe abroad is by the way the conduct themselves. Learn about tip and suggestions about how your child’s Behavior While Abroad can help to keep them safe.

Must Ask Questions

• How do I contact my child in case of emergency?


• What is the equivalent of 911 in my child’s host country?


• Does my child have any health issues that they will need to take care of while abroad?


• What medications will my child need to take abroad?


• What are the local laws?


• What are common crimes in my child’s host country?


• How can my child safely get around? Is public transit safe and reliable? Are there things my child should look out for as a pedestrian?


• What is appropriate dress and behavior in my child’s host country?