Party Tips

How does your family decide on teenage privileges and responsibilities? Have you ever wished for a standard to help you make those decisions?

The following guidelines are designed for just that purpose. They may be too restrictive for some families and too permissive for others; but by using them as a guide we can establish a sense of agreement in our community.

WHEN YOUR CHILD IS INVITED TO A PARTY

• When your child is invited to a party, tell him/her that you intend to call the host parent to determine whether there will be parental supervision and if alcoholic beverages will be served. Be sure to follow through on these plans.

   

• When you are comfortable with the party plans, including transportation arrangements, only then give your consent for the child to attend the party. Be sure to know when the party ends and when your child will be home.

   

• Make it easy for your child to leave a party where there is drinking or other drug use. Discuss this in advance. If, for any reason, your child wishes to leave a party early or has a change of plans, he/she should be able to call you or another designated adult for assistance.

   

• Make it easy for your child to talk to you when arriving home. Being up and available when your child comes home from a party encourages communication and could alert your to a potential problem.

WHEN YOUR CHILD IS HAVING A PARTY

• Have your child develop a guest list and party plans. Suggest changes if necessary, but try to be tactful.

   

• Set specific beginning and end times for the party. Consider daytime parties as alternatives to nighttime parties; other party ideas could include skating, swimming, watching a video, bowling, etc.

   

• Set ground rules that are clearly understood by both you and your child in advance. These include:

  No alcohol or other drugs. Remember it is illegal to serve alcohol or other drugs to minors even in a private home. Parents are legally responsible for anything that may happen to a minor who has been served alcohol or other drugs in their homes.

  No smoking.

  No leaving the party and then returning.

  Limit the party to a certain area of your home.

  Leave lights on.

   

• Try to reconcile your child's plans for the party with your own standards.