How to Throw an 18th Birthday Party

An 18th birthday is a big event. It's the first coming-of-age milestone birthday, when a teen finally reaches adult status. This important day should not go unnoticed. If you have a teen turning 18, choose to throw an 18th birthday party to celebrate the occasion. After all, it's not every day a child steps into adulthood.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Get the guest of honor to help. Although a surprise party can sound enjoyable, 18-year-olds don't usually share a parent's ideas of fun. Let her in on the secret, and ask for her input on every decision.

2. Lay down the law. Tell your son the exact rules for him and his friends at the party. If you do not intend to allow alcohol on the premises, let him know. Trust him to inform his friends of your expectations.

3. Prepare your neighbors. Tell them ahead of time that your daughter's milestone birthday party is around the corner. Ask them to tell you at once if there are any problems on party night.

4. Plan on more food than you think necessary. Teens can eat twice their body weight without batting an eyelash. A full meal isn't necessary, but numerous snacks are a must at an 18th birthday party.

5. Hire a DJ, or preview your teen's music selection. Know ahead of time what music is to your liking, and veto anything offensive before party night.

6. Consider making the party into a sleepover. This negates the worry of teens driving home late at night. However, if both boys and girls are staying over, be sure to have extra adult chaperones. Explain sleepover plans to the other parents personally; don't rely on their teen to tell them that the party's co-ed.