Graduation is a special time where alcohol can get mixed in, so we put together some tips and advice to help parents and teens stay safe. The longer children delay alcohol use, the less likely they are to develop any problems associated with it.
General Advice
- Show you care: Even though teens may not always show it, they still need to know that they are important to their parents.
- Draw the line: Set clear, realistic expectations and consequences for your child’s behavior. Share your views, so they know where you stand.
- Ask open-ended questions: Encourage your teen to tell you how they think and feel about the topic. Avoid simple “yes” or “no” questions.
- Control your emotions: If you hear something you don’t like, try not to respond emotionally. Instead, take a few deep breaths and share your thoughts or feelings in a constructive way.
Tips For:
Meet the parent
- Contact the party host and introduce yourself and your teen.
- Offer your phone number to the party host.
- Ask if any alcohol will be served or allowed to be brought in.
Talk with your teen
- Agree on the curfew.
- Make sure your teen knows that is never acceptable to get into a car with someone who has been drinking or using drugs.
- Discuss what you both will do if alcohol, tobacco or other drugs are present at the party.
- Agree to ground rules ahead of time. Examples: No alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs; some rooms are off limits, know the guest list.
- If any guests arrive at the party acting like they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, notify their parents immediately.
- Plan to have plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Take inventory of your alcohol and prescription medications, and store them in a secured place.
- Have a responsible adult live in your home during your absence or have your teenager stay with a responsible adult. Explain to them your family policy and rules for parties.
- Inform trusted neighbors that you are out of town and to call you or the police if any suspicious activity is witnessed. Let your neighbor know that teen parties are not allowed.
Did you know?
It is illegal to allow anyone under the age of 21 to drink alcohol on your property. You can be held liable both civilly and criminally if any person under the age of 21 has been drinking in your home. Discuss this with you teen as well.
Sources:
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Informed Families
