Create fun safe, chem-free environments
Tips for Planning A Substance -Free Party


Include a small circle of your teen’s friends to help plan the party

Discuss a guest list and any concerns you may have

Know the ages of the invitees and how they know your child



Agree on a limit to the number of guests

Invite other parents or chaperones to attend the party

Establish firm ground rules and expectations before the party and ask your teen to communicate them with his/her guests before the event

Make it clear that you are sponsoring a substance free party
(no alcohol, tobacco or drugs)

Define an area for the party and do not allow partygoers into other areas
(bedrooms, garage, adjacent property, etc.)

Set a beginning and ending time for the party



Plan the party menu and activities

Have plenty of snacks, non-alcoholic beverages and activities available
 
Discourage guests from leaving and returning to the party
(this may deter youth from leaving to use and return under the influence) 

Establish a signal that your child may use if he or she needs help

Be prepared to call a guest’s parents if the child appears to be under the influence or brings alcohol or other drugs to the party



Taken from “A Practical Guide to Preventing and Dispersing Underage Drinking Parties”
Things you can do as a parent to help your child to make good decisions about alcohol and drugs:










Chem Free Party Tips
Healthy Waldo County
Chem Free Party  Tips
HMP is a collaborative effort among 28 local coalitions, the Maine DHHS (Maine CDC and Office of Substance Abuse) and DOE, supported primarily by the Funds for Healthy Maine with federal grants from the US CDC, SAMHSA, and DOE.