Teen Party 101

How to have a successful teen party?? That is a really good question. What parent wants to watch their teenager cry because no one showed up to their party. And one bad party can mean no one ever comes again in their entire high school career. I've seen it too many times. (Have you seen "Mean Girls"? they really do exist!)

My first rule is to let your child do the inviting and STAY OUT of it. Audrey's preference now is to use the Facebook "Event" application and send out invitations via Facebook. I miss the days when we made cute little party invites and gave them to the mom's but they are past. I try to tell myself I have saved a tree by doing it all electronically.

Next, have lots of food and make it fun!

Audrey had an Anti Valentine's day or Single Awareness Day Party.
The menu included:
Mom's homemade pizza with any crazy toppings imaginable.
Chocolate Fondue with dippables like marshmallows, gingersnaps, apples, strawberries,vanilla wafers, oreos,and more junk.
Fudge: both chocolate and peanut butter (we have blogged this recipe)
Crackers, salami and cheese platter
Lots of soda and water!

Activities like MUSIC, GAMING and MOVIES are great. Rockband or Guitar Hero are always popular. And everyone can bring their ipods to plug in and play their playlists. We have a "Garage Band" so usually they will jam a bit and the kids like that too. The drums are pretty loud but its worth it and we always stop before 10pm.

Most of all, be around just in case but kind of stay invisible. You get to hear the most interesting conversations because the teens forget your are there and keep an eye on things without intruding. Trust your child and their friends to hold to the values you gave them growing up.
Having a craft or other diversion is important in case the kids get bored. Our Anti Valentine Pins and Necklaces were a big hit even with the boys.