Middle and High School students want to party. In fact, many times when we ask them why they drink they report that there is nothing else to do, or they want to relax. Teen parties can be fun for teens, and still meet your considerations about being safe and sober.
Resist your inclination to control the process. Let your kids learn how to entertain by guiding them with curious questions about how they might want to handle things like food, beverages, party crashers, and dangerous choices. Share with them what the limits might be in terms of budget or numbers of guests, but let them get the ball rolling. Be judicious about reining them in. This is all a part of them becoming successful independent adults.
There a some useful websites to consider when planning Teen parties. Check these out, and share them with your teens if you think that the kids are open to some suggestions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Association has put together a very nice website with ideas to help teens plan safe and sober parties. Check it out, navigate through all four parts and then pass it on to your teens so they can start making their own plans.
A Guide to Safe and Sober Event Planning
How to Do Things.com
Another resource with some useful ideas
http://www.howtodothings.com/how-to-throw-a-great-party-for-your-teen.html
Remember none of this guarantees that nothing illegal will be happening during the party. But, it goes a long way toward acting responsibly and encouraging your children to do the same.
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