If you’re a parent of a teenager, then you understand just how vital a teenager’s social life is to their existence. Teens need to have time with their friends, and hosting a party is one of the coolest ways to spend that time.
The key is to make sure you can keep the gathering above the board. As an adult, you have certain legal responsibilities when hosting a teenage party. Understanding the full breadth of your responsibilities will help to keep you and your teens safer in the long run.
Take some time to read through this brief overview of some of the legal risks involved in hosting a teenage party. Consider how you want to plan and take precautions to avoid common pitfalls.
Teen drinking is very bad
You already know that it’s not a good idea to provide your teens with alcohol, and it’s an even worse idea to provide alcohol for other people’s teens. Either way, underage drinking is illegal. You could find yourself in a world of trouble if something goes awry.
More importantly, teen drinking has some very real consequences for the kids. A teen’s mind is not yet fully developed, and the effects of alcohol can be devastating on that growth. Teens who drink alcohol are also far more likely to get injured or killed in a car accident.
If someone gets hurt at the party
Inviting a gaggle of teenagers to your home for a party is a certain way to assume risk. Teenagers are often unpredictable, and an injury on your property could turn into a financial nightmare.
The parents of the hosting teenager could be charged with civil or criminal charges if alcohol is provided to the teens, someone’s property is damaged, a kid gets hurt/killed, or you allow a kid to get in a car while under the influence.
Build a strong parenting network
It’s not completely contraindicated to throw a teen party at your home, but you should invest in relationships with the kids’ parents as well. When you have a whole network of parents working together as one unit, it makes it much more difficult for your kids to get away with stuff.
Plan the guest list in advance
It’s best that you know who is going to be at the party before you open your home to a bunch of teenagers. Knowing the names ahead of time gives you the chance to get to know a little about each kid. It also allows you to limit the number of attendees.
Set party rules and expectations
When you’re throwing a party for teens, you need to be very clear about what your boundaries. Set straightforward rules and expectations for the party, and choose kids who you know will respect your wishes.
