Planning a trouble free sweet 16 party

Teenage house parties can be joyous events for teenagers, parents and family members. But, they can also harbour unsavoury "goings-on". To protect one's youngsters from things getting out of hand at their party, have a frank and honest discussion with your child before the party planning commences and before the invitations are sent. Discuss your expectations and party rules with your child.

A well organized party with plenty of tasty food and plenty of alcohol free drinks will keep the merriment in the party. Throw in an interesting theme and you will be assured that all the youngsters enjoy a great evening. The theme "a night at the Oscars" was a hit at a recent teenage party in our neighborhood.

Firstly, it is important that the guests are selected carefully. Teenagers should party with friends of their own age group. Invitations extended to college and university students could be trouble seeking. Students have expectations about parties. Most of all they expect alcohol to be allowed. If alcohol is not served they will probably bring it along.

Fist recommendation: Do not invite older youngsters and students that are of alcohol drinking age.

Second recommendation: It is a given that alcohol should not be served. Serve a variety of alcohol free cocktails.

In every young person's life there is often that one child that is known for his or her trouble-making activities. These children have the capacity to disrupt an otherwise great party.

Third recommendation: Do not invite the local "classroom bully".

Youngsters tend to feel that their parties should go on into the wee hours of the morning. A well organized teenage party should end at a reasonable time.

Fourth recommendation: When you invite the guests, inform them of the starting time of the party, as well as when it will end. Stick to this decision.

The last recommendation is probably the one that youngsters dislike most. The presence of adults at a teenage party is probably the most important recommendation for a number of reasons. Not only is it important to have adult supervision because there are many under aged children in your (parents') care, adult supervision is also needed to ensure the safety of these young guests. It is also the adults' responsibility to end the party at the predetermined time.

Fifth recommendation: Make sure that there is adult supervision at the party. The adults can plan a quiet evening - if that is possible, in another area of the house.

Have a fun filled sweet 16 party!