Talking with other parents is the best way to normalize the conversation around alcohol and drugs at social gatherings. When one parent starts the conversation, others will join in, and everyone is doing their part in keeping our kids safe.
If you’re hosting…
- Have an open and honest conversation with your child about your expectations and ground rules for parties.
- Ensure you and your child’s friends’ parents are on the same page by sending an email in advance of the party outlining your expectations.
- Have a visible adult chaperone who checks in on guests often, such as when replenishing refreshments.
- Keep alcohol and marijuana out of sight or locked away so kids don’t feel tempted.
- Pre-plan drug-free activities, like Karaoke or color wars, to keep the fun going!
If your teen is going to a party…
- Contact the host parent and ask if they’ll be home and that alcohol and other drugs won’t be allowed.
- Role play with your child on handling a situation where alcohol is available. For example they can say, “No thanks, I have a big game tomorrow.”
- Know where your teen is going and ask them to text if they change locations.
- Make it easy for your teen to leave a party and make it clear they can text/call anytime with an agreed upon code word or text like, “I forgot to feed the dog.”
- Be awake to greet your teen when they get home.
Additional tips to safely hosting teen parties can be found HERE.
Research shows that 3 out of 4 youth say their parents — not their friends — are the #1 influence in their decision not to drink alcohol. Talking with your teen and answering their tough questions are addressed in CTAD’s Alcohol & Teens Parent Guide.
Conversation starters in CTAD’s Family Resource Guide (English) and en español can help you navigate many topics.
