Talk, Listen, Connect

Parent’s guide to teen parties

When your teen is having a party

• Know the guest list to avoid an “open party” situation
• Consider daytime parties as an alternative to evening ones
• Plan an activity such as swimming, skating, movies, etc.
• Set a time limit:  have a definite starting and ending time
• Agree to rules ahead of time:  No alcohol, smoking, or drugs
  • No leaving the party and returning
  • No uninvited guests
  • Lights should stay on
  • Some rooms in the house are off limits
• Know your responsibilities:  Be visible and AWARE
  • It is ILLEGAL to serve alcohol to minors
  • Hosting an underage drinking party can result in a misdemeanor, punishable with a fine up to $2,500 and possible jail time
  • Parents who rent a hotel room where minors are found to be drinking may be fined $2,000 and could face up to 1 year in prison
  • Invite another parent(s) over to help 

When your teen is going to a party

• Call the host – ask about the basic rules, if there will be parental supervision, and if there will be alcohol present
• Check the party plans beforehand with your teenager – know where your child is going and with whom. 
• If you don’t know the host, be sure to introduce yourself
• Make it easy for your teen to leave a party – if there is alcohol or drugs present and your child wanted to leave a party, make arrangements that your child can call you to come. 
• Urge  your teen to never ride with someone who is under the influence
• Be up to greet your teen when they get home 

5 Tips for Talking to Your Teen

1. Focus on your intentions:  ask yourself, “What do I really want to accomplish?”
2. Use facts, not judgments
3. Keep the conversation safe
4. Agree on clear rules, expectations, and consequences
5. Evaluate how the conversation went