We've mentioned on various occasions how important socialising is for our teens.

Part of the socialising process is having a party or being invited to one.

A gathering provides an opportunity for teenagers to have fun, make new friends, and be accepted by their peers. It is a milestone in their personal development.

If your teen is hosting the party, it's an ideal opportunity for you to get to know their friends better. It is also a great opportunity for your Teen to learn skills on entertaining.

Check out our article on hosting a teen party.

Teenager who's been invited to a party.

When your teen comes home from school and asks you if they can go to a party, the majority of parents would expect to see an invitation, written proof of the forthcoming event. Often there isn't one! As a parent what do you do?

Speak to the parents who are holding the party, to enure they will be home, and there will be adult supervision.

Be comfortable with asking the parents who will be hosting the party if they will allow alcohol.

If there is alcohol at the party you and your partner may need to decide whether you think that it is suitable for your teenager to be exposed to it.

Be prepared when you are making your decision. Emphasise the safety issue and legal issues associated with drinking. You may be out of favour for a while with your teen.

Drive your teen and their friends to the party, or share the drop of and pick up with another parent.

Discuss with your teen an agreed time when you would like them home, if you are unsure about what is reasonable, have a chat to some other parents of teens to guide you. Be guided by what your Teen says about the times their friends will be leaving.
Have a chat to the parents who are hosting the party. They may have a departure time in mind.

Whilst your talking to the parents who are hosting the party, ask if they will be staying in the grounds of the house? If they congregate out of the front of the house it can be an open invitation for gatecrashers!

When you pick up your teen, go to the door, introduce yourself, ask how everything went, be comfortable with asking a few questions as this information may assist you when your turn comes for hosting a party!