Keeping Teens Safe During Prom & Graduation Season

As prom and graduation season approaches, many parents are understandably concerned about the safety of their children during these celebrations. While these events can be a fun and memorable experience, they can also be a time of increased risk for dangerous behavior. Therefore, it is crucial for parents to have a plan in place to ensure their child’s safety. I recently had the pleasure of appearing on The Daily Drum on WHUR 96.3 FM to discuss this topic. Here are the key strategies I shared to consider when creating a parental safety plan for prom and graduation.

1. Have a Real Conversation. Assume Nothing!!! One of the most important things you can do as a parent is to have an open and honest conversation with your child about their plans for prom and graduation. Congratulate them on their achievements and remind them of the bright future that lies ahead of them. Find out what they are interested in doing and how they would like to celebrate. By having a real conversation, you can gain a better understanding of what your child wants and needs from you during this time.
2. Identify What Activities Are Happening and Create a Schedule. It’s important to know what events are happening during prom and graduation season and to create a schedule accordingly. This includes school-sanctioned and required events, as well as other events that your child may be interested in attending. By having a clear schedule, you can ensure that your child is aware of their plans and has a clear understanding of what they are expected to do.
3. Assess Supervision. Knowing who will be supervising your child during prom and graduation events is essential for their safety. This can include school staff, private chaperones, or even you as a parent. Make sure you know who will be responsible for your child’s safety during each event.
4. Decide What is Feasible and Allowable. As you create your plan, it’s important to consider logistics, finances, and safety. Determine what is feasible for your family and what you are willing to allow. For example, if transportation is an issue, you may need to consider hiring a private driver or arranging for a carpool. Discuss these options with your child to come up with a plan that works for everyone.
5. Form an Agreement About Schedule of Allowable Events. Once you have a plan in place, it’s important to create an agreement with your child about what is allowed and expected during prom and graduation events. Be clear about your expectations, especially when it comes to non-negotiables like “no drinking and driving” or engaging in sexual activity. Discuss curfews, sanctioned activities, parental contact, and emergency plans. Coordinate with other families to exchange contact information and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

By following these parental safety tips for prom and graduation, you can help ensure that your child has a safe and enjoyable experience during these important milestones. Remember to keep the lines of communication open with your child and to prioritize their safety above all else. With careful planning and preparation, you can help your child celebrate their achievements in a safe and responsible way. To listen to the radio interview, visit https://whur.com/news/prom-night-parenting-tips/.

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