Guidelines for hosting a party

Press, 1 December 1988, Page 9

Guidelines for hosting a party

A parent should be present and seen during the party. The parent can bring in snacks and nonalcoholic drinks. This helps keep the party running smoothly. Also it gives an opportunity for the parent to meet the teenager’s friends. If possible have the party in the main part of the house. Parents’ presence then seems more natural and acceptable. Ask other parents to help supervise. Do not offer alcohol or drugs to adolescent guests. Do not allow them to be brought in to the party. Be alert to the signs of . alcohol and drug use. Be firm about a “no

drug” stand. Ask guests bringing in alcohol or drugs to leave. Phone the parents of anyone who arrives at the. party under the influence of alcohol or another drug. Do not let a person drive when under the influence. Set ground rules with your teenager before the party. This will give you both an opportunity to express feelings and concerns. Check with the teenager the party guidelines. Let your teenager know your expectation. Help your teenager understand your reasons for the drug-free stand. Be very firm. Limit party attendance and times. It is important to discourage gate-

crashers. Help make a guest list and send out invitations beforehand. Avoid “open house” parties. They are difficult to control. Set time limits for the party that enable teenagers to be home at a preset time. Plan to have plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks on hand at the party. Plan activities with your teenager prior to the party. Notify the police when planning a large party. This will help police to protect you, your guests and your neighbours. Notify the neighbours that there will be a party. Encourage your teenager to write a note to or phone close neighbours

asking them to let the family know if there is too much noise. Such contact will let the neighbours know that the party is being properly organised. Maintain an acceptable outdoor music volume. Do not allow anyone who leaves the party to return. This will prevent teenagers leaving the party to drink or use drugs elsewhere and then return. If, in spite of your precautions, things get out of hand, do not hesitate to call your local police for help. Encourage shared supervision. (Issued by Pryde International for Parent Peer Groups.)