Party Tips

Set clear rules and expectations beforehand. Be consistent with consequences if your expectations are not met.

Spread the word. Make sure your child’s guests (and their parents) are aware of your house rules.

Make it exclusive. Encouraging an “invitation only” party will help manage size and make it easier to monitor.

Create a safe space. Lock up your alcohol and prescription medications. For free locked storage options, contact the Sauk County Health Department at 608-355-3290.

Actively chaperone. You are responsible for what’s happening on property you control, including hotel rooms in your name.

Be present and visible throughout the party. Fill the chips, dips and alcohol-free beverages

Know the signs of use. If you suspect someone is impaired, call their parents and arrange for a safe ride home.

Talk to the parents. Ask about supervision. Share your rules.

Verify the plan. Who, what, where, when – ask questions!

Set clear rules and expectations. Be consistent with your consequences if your expectations are not met.

Ask your child to check in with you regularly with a phone call. Have a code word your teen can use if they need you to pick them up.

Don’t scold. If your teen needs help or a ride home because of substance use, focus on the positive: they trust you enough to ask for help. Wait until later to talk about what happened.

Be present. When your children arrive home, give them a hug. Not only can you smell them, it reinforces that you’re glad they’re home safely.

That night:

Remain calm. They’re home -- take a deep breath.
Ask questions. Who were they with? What drugs did they take?

The day after:

Keep your cool. Voice your disappointment or anger in a respectful way. Express your love, too.

Revisit rules and expectations. Have them identify what they should have done differently, and work through the lessons learned.

Enforce realistic consequences, making sure both parents are on the same page. “Grounding for life” won’t work.

Seek professional help if you are concerned about your child’s use of alcohol or other drugs.

Before you leave:

Make sure your teen is supervised.

Set clear “no party” rules.

Spread the word: Let your neighbors, friends or other family members know you’ll be gone, and how they can contact you.