With prom season beginning this weekend, many teenagers will be excited to attend this special event. Parents can help their teenagers have a safe and memorable time by reminding them of a few simple rules, planning ahead, having an organized agenda, and reinforcing good etiquette when it comes to prom.
Who is buying?
Once a teenager has decided who they are going to take to the prom, it can help if they have a discussion with their date about who is paying for what. For example, who is paying for the tickets, transportation, dinner, and/or pictures? It could be awkward if they get to the prom and did not work out the minor details when it comes to money.
Sometimes, dates will split all the expenses and others may prefer to pay for everything for their dates. Students will need to have a talk with their dates as well as their parents on what is the best option.
Proper Attire
When it comes to proper attire for the prom, it is vital to check with the school district's dress code. The prom can be one of the best events in a teenager's life! Prom is a formal event; therefore, it is important that students wear formal attire. It also can be a life lesson for students because it teaches them they will need to be dressed appropriately for events such as graduations, weddings, and various ceremonies.
Practice Good Manners
It is important for students to have good manners when it comes to dining and dancing at the prom. As far as dining, dates should never put their elbows on the table, chew with their mouths open, double dip, or begin eating before everyone is seated.
Prom would not be complete without dancing the night away! A good rule of thumb is to encourage students to ask their dates if they would like to dance; never assume it is okay to leave them alone.
Keep a Prom Agenda
Parents should keep an agenda of the time and location of their child's prom. It might be a good idea to have a conversation with them on what the expectations are. Parents may want to have the contact information for their child's date and his or her parents available, establish curfew, and discuss driving responsibilities.
Discuss Drugs and Alcohol
Even though you've had the conversation before, talking about drugs and alcohol — and especially driving under the influence of either — is essential.
If students feel like they are in a difficult situation with their date or friends, encourage them to text a code word or phrase that only the family will know. If parents receive the code word, then they know their child needs to be picked up without judgement. It is vital to keep teenagers safe during prom season!
Have a Wonderful Prom Season!
Barron Whited is a College Admissions Specialist, Bullying Prevention Specialist, and School Counselor Leadership Specialist. He has a Masters Degree in Education and is K-12 School Counselor Certified.
