High school football season is in full swing and for the next few weeks, football games, homecoming dances and parties will be a top focus for many teens. But this time of the year also means that teens are put into social situations where they have easy access to drugs and alcohol.
As we head into the homecoming (aka “party”) season, we must focus on ensuring that our teens stay safe at these events. Remember that parents are the number-one positive influence on a teen’s decision to not drink or do drugs and it is important to talk with your teens about their options, transportation and curfew before they leave the house.
Some ways in which parents can help keep their teens safe and healthy during homecoming season include:
Reinforcing expectations
Attending football games and homecoming dances is a privilege, and privileges come with responsibility; reestablish the rules and the consequences for breaking them. While it may be okay to loosen the reins a bit, it needs to be clear that drinking and drug use is unacceptable.
Make each moment count
Teens only get one junior/senior year. Let them know that you don’t want them to miss out on things because of bad choices.
Help plan
Know your child’s itinerary and where they will be on weekend nights. This includes who they will be with and phone numbers where they can be contacted. Establish call-in times and give the option of calling at any time for help or advice, which includes picking them up if needed.
Providing safe alternatives
Many teens attend parties because “that is what everyone else is doing” and they may have nothing else to do. Plan a chaperoned alcohol-free party or activity that allows your teen and their friends to have fun in a safe environment.
Have a plan in place before your teen leaves the house and the “party” begins. Schedule a family dinner the week before and have a discussion about what your expectations are and also what their expectations are.
It is important to have a conversation with your teens about making healthy choices while they’re out, especially when it comes to drugs and alcohol.
