So your teen wants to have a party? It seems better to be ‘the place’ where the teenagers hang out (otherwise parents end up driving them all over creation or worrying about them driving there), so you might as well brace yourself for the party era to come.
What are some survival tips for parents who may reluctantly become the hosts of a teenage birthday or other celebration party?
Teen Party Invites
Your teen should step up to do most of the planning for the party. Gone are the days where you as a parent had to do everything from shopping for invitations and cakes to planning games and favors. Decide how many kids are allowed to be invited- figure 75% will make it to the party. Encourage your teen to send an online evite- this will be easier to manage than printed invitations as it keeps track of who’s coming. There are many cute designs from which your teenager can choose.
Managing Money
Create a budget so that your teen doesn’t overspend in planning the party. Figure out what you want the budget to be for food and decorations. Suggest to your teen that party guests should be encouraged to bring soda chips or other snacks to cut down on the party cost for mom and dad.
Teen Party Fun
There's all kinds of clean fun teens can have at a party. Whether it’s a Guitar Hero tournament (have a friend bring an extra guitar), karaoke dance party, scary movie night with candlelight and a popcorn machine, a pool party, spa makeover, outdoor sports or other theme, it’s fun to have a general idea of what kinds of activities the kids will enjoy.
Teen Clean Up
A teen who wants to have a party is ripe for quid pro quo. Tell your teen that he will need to help clean up the house both before and after the party, including vacuuming, straightening up and setting up the party area. Try to keep the food in one place, activities like music/karaoke/video games in one room, and a ‘conversation room’ where the kids can hang out.
Rules for a Teenage Party
Set up clear guidelines in advance for the party. Obviously, no drinking would be a primary rule (but set up a ‘fruit smoothie bar’ where kids can make their own frozen drinks). Tell your teen there will be a ‘no contact’ rule if you feel uncomfortable having teenagers doing who knows what in terms of boyfriend/girlfriend activity. Set beginning and ending times for the party. Be sure parents of other teens know when rides are needed. Decide in advance if one or more friends will be allowed to sleep over.
Most of all- get a good magazine or book for yourself...and also get your ipod earbuds out so you won't have to hear the noise!
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