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 This
could be one of the most worrying developments in your
young person's life. Just one of many difficult decisions
you will have to make as the parent of a teenager.
Here are some things you might like to
consider.
- Speak to the parents holding the party to make sure
they will be at home and there will be adequate adult
supervision. Most parents expect this to happen.
- Check by asking the parents holding the party if their
will be alcohol at the party and decide whether based
on this fact your teenager will attend. Sometimes as
parents we have to make unpopular decisions in the short
term but in the long term they are for our child's protection.
- Pick up and deliver your teenager with some of their
friends. Teenagers can be nervous about going to a party
and having a friend/friends can give them support.
- Sometimes despite planning
unexpected things can happen. Try and prepare your
teenager by discussing what they would do if the
party finished early or they were offered drugs or
alcohol. This may include helping your teen resist
peer pressure by giving them some techniques on how
to say “no” to
alcohol. You might also discuss the effects
of alcohol.
- Make sure your teenager has money for a phone call,
a mobile or a way of contacting you early if they need
or want to come home, or feel unsafe.
- Don't be afraid to go to the door when you drop off
or collect your teenager especially if they are younger.
This will give you a chance to meet the other parents.
- If there are videos to be shown check what they are.
Some videos can be disturbing to young teenagers in particular
and may not be appropriate.
- Check with your teenager to ensure they are clear about
the rules in terms of what is okay behaviour and what
is not.
- Parents have the right to remind older teenagers who
have their licence about being safe, such as, not drinking
and driving and not being alone in a dangerous situation.
- Set a clear time when they will be picked up.
- Talk to other parents with teenagers. They are often
feeling the same as you and can sometimes confirm
“not everyone's parents are letting them”
Generally as parents we make rules and
decisions to keep our children safe and because we love
them. Sometimes we need to remind them of these reasons
when we are discussing decisions.
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