How do I protect her?

You can’t stop your kids from growing up, but my daughter (the baby of the family) has recently started dating a boy at her sixth form college who, I’ve heard, has a bit of a reputation. They’re going on a trip away for a week with their geography class, and I can’t help but be slightly paranoid about what they might get up to. Do I need to worry, or am I just being over-protective? Lisa, St. Ives I’m afraid that, when children get to the age of 17 or 18, it’s hard to control their every move. I’m sure the school trip will be strictly monitored but, if you’re that concerned, have a diplomatic word with one of the supervisors. All you can do is hope your daughter has retained all the values you’ve taught her. But, at that age, she’s tasting independence!