A Unified Message for Prom and Graduation Parties

Prom and graduation is often associated with peer pressure to drink alcohol, do drugs, drive dangerously, and have sex. However, parents can play a major role in their children’s choices about alcohol, tobacco or other drugs. As a parent, it is important to discuss the dangers of underage drinking and drug use prior to their children attending prom or graduation parties.

Parents who knowingly allow a person under age 21 to remain on their property while consuming or possessing alcoholic beverages can be prosecuted and face a jail sentence, fines and loss of property. There are many heath-related consequences of youth consuming alcohol including negative effects on brain development, deviant behavior including stealing and skipping school and a greater risk of becoming alcohol-dependant later in life.

Adults providing alcohol to underage youth send a mixed message and can only add to a teenager’s confusion about the acceptability of drinking. They are also sending the message to teens that they do not have to obey the law. Research shows that most teenagers appreciate it when their parents set boundaries and establish expectations that are fairly enforced. Our youth deserve to live and grow to adulthood in an environment where alcohol is not misused. Let’s be unified in our message, and host alcohol-free parties with plenty of fun activities to show our youth that we care about their future.

For more information or to join the Healthy Communities Initiative (HCI) Coalition, please contact Kathy Becker at (402) 529-2233.