The mercury is finally rising here in Hackensack after a long, cold New Jersey winter. These warmer temperatures coincide with some traditional rites of spring for American teens — prom night and graduation celebrations.
It’s long been a tradition for teenagers to go for a meal before the dance and head to after-parties when it ends. There is nothing inherently wrong with parents allowing teens to attend prom and the after-party, but it does expose them to more risk. Below are some tips to keep kids safer this spring.
Parents’ words, actions carry weight
By having a series of discussions with their teens about responsible decisions and the reasons for never drinking and driving, parents imprint their values upon them. That alone can keep potentially wayward teenagers on the straight and narrow.
Confirm plans with other parents
Make sure that the after-party down the shore the next day is really going to be chaperoned by responsible adults. Some families share the cost of limos or party buses with the parents of the teens’ friends for the assurance that no teens will be drinking and driving.
Also, make sure to exchange contact information with the other parents in the event of a crisis.
If they are injured in a wreck
Prom season statistics are grim because accidents happen frequently around this time of year. If your son or daughter gets injured in a prom-night accident, your job will be to advocate for them both medically and legally to see that they get the best outcome going forward.
