There are many occasions to celebrate as the weather gets warmer, including spring break, family gatherings, prom and graduations. See tips from the Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA) on supporting teens in your life to celebrate safely! 

Discuss Alcohol and Other Drugs

Parents and caregivers have a significant influence on their children's decision to not use substances. Even though it may not always feel like it, children really do listen to their parents' concerns. This is one of the reasons it’s important for parents and caregivers to have consistent conversations with their children about the risks of using alcohol and other drugs. Check out these tips to help guide your conversation: 

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug use.
• Show you care about your teen's health, wellness, and success.
• Show you're a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs.
• Show you're paying attention and will discourage risky behaviors.
• Build your teen's skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use.

See more resources to keep the conversation going

Is Your Teen Hosting or Attending a Party?
Your teen is likely looking forward to some time off from school and hanging out with their friends! Review these tips from Informed Families to help your teen have fun and safe spring break gatherings.

Tips for when your teen is attending a party

Contact the adult who is hosting the party:

• Ask for the address, occasion, and time of the party.
• Let the host know that your teen is not allowed to drink alcohol or smoke.
• Ask if there will be parental supervision throughout the event.
• Offer your phone number to the party host.

Discuss these issues with your teen before the party:

• Discuss expectations and consequences.
• Agree on a curfew.
• Discuss how your teen will get to and from the party.
• Discuss what your teen should do if there is alcohol or other drugs present at the party.
• Offer to be your teen's ride home and agree on a "code word" should your teen want to discreetly let you know they want to be picked up.

Tips for when your teen is hosting a party

Plan with your teen:

• Know who your guests will be and avoid an "open party" situation.
• Agree on party rules beforehand. This should include making it clear that alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and other drugs are not allowed.
• Welcome calls from other parents to discuss party arrangements.

Know your responsibilities: 

It is illegal to serve alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age. Penalties upon conviction include: 

• A $2,500 fine per young person provided any alcoholic beverage.
• Loss of the adult’s driver’s license for up to one year and/or one year in jail.

Explore more tips for celebrating safely this spring and year-round at PreventItAlexandria.org.