18th birthday party: Your child is becoming an adult

Your child is having another birthday. This birthday is a little different to any of the ones that came before it. Your child is no longer a kid - he/she is growing up. They are becoming an adult, they are turning 18.

Many parents don't really know what to do when you their child turns 18. There might be mixed emotions. You are happy that your son or daughter is growing up, but you are also sad that your little baby is no longer your little baby. From this point on they will be depending on you less and less as they move out into the world.

So what do you do. Firstly it's a big day for you child, so you need to act accordingly. So you want to throw them a party, but this party will be a little different. It will be their first adult party, their first non "kiddies" or "teen" party.

You need to give them a real party, a party that they will remember and appreciate. Don't be shy, ask them about it and try to gage their mood about their 18th. Maybe they want to plan the party or at least be involved in the party planning.

You need to think of a gift that complements the occasion. This gift will not be anything like the gifts you have given in the past. Previously you gave presents that were for a teenager or a kid. This gift is for a young adult. Many parents, if they can afford it, will give a gift that builds on their future or will help them in the next part of their lives. This can be anything from a laptop computer to a car to money for college. A gift does not need to be that large or expensive. Give a gift that you can afford, but make it a thoughtful gift that your child will enjoy and appreciate.

The last thing to remember is to have fun. Enjoy the party with your now adult son or daughter. It will be the last party with your child as a teenager and the first as an adult.