Graduation Parties

Even with all we know about teens and alcohol, there are still plenty of parents out there who struggle with whether or not they should serve alcohol at their child's graduation party. I can't tell you how many times I've heard parents say that their kids are going to drink anyway, and they would rather have them drink at home than out in a car somewhere. Oh, really?? I know plenty of teens who don't drink and don't want to hang out with kids who do. I guess if you believe your child is going to drink no matter what, then he probably will. But there's nothing wrong with expecting that your child will NOT drink until he's of legal age, if then! Furthermore, even if aforementioned argument is true for your child, what about other people's children? They won't be drinking at home, they'll be drinking at your house. You sure you want that responsibility? And, of course, there's always the risk of being arrested for serving minors.

Think of it this way....kids don't need alcohol to have a good time. That's an adult thing. The adults might be bored at a kid's graduation party without the booze, but so what? The party's not for them, it's for the kids. The graduates will be deliriously happy regardless of the refreshments you serve. It should be a fabulous, stay-up-all-night laughing your head off with your friends for maybe the last time ever kind of event. And wouldn't you like them to do it without puking or dealing with a hangover the day after?

If you're trying to be the cool parent by letting them drink, you're way off base. Trust me, they won't think you're cool...they'll think you're pathetic.