Things You'll Need:
- Teenagers
- Cake, soda and snacks
- Good music
- Activities
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Step 1
Talk to your teen about what kind of party they would like. I have two teens--a boy and a girl. My son would want a completely different style of party than my daughter. The attitudes and interests of a teen change rapidly. It's important to sit down with your teen and brainstorm party ideas they might be interested in. When your child is 4 or 5 you can have much more control over what type of party you are going to have. With a teen you need to know what they want to do for their birthday. Teens like freedom and space. They're no longer comfortable with just sitting around with Mom and Dad. You can create a party for your teen that makes both of you happy by talking about limits before the party begins.
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Step 2
Teens love cake, soda and snacks. What they don't like is some cute character they had at earlier birthday parties on the balloons, napkins and tablecloths. Have plenty of food on hand just buy the basic plates and napkins without any theme or character. Depending on the age of the teen they might want to have both boys and girls at the party. This is a good opportunity to encourage good social behavior in your teen and give them the opportunity to interact with a diverse group. Set limits with your teen before the party begins.
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Step 3
Teens love to listen to music. Have your teen select a playlist of their favorite songs before the party. If you don't have the latest I-Pod and speakers you can copy the playlist onto a CD and play through a regular stereo. Good music will lead to good conversation and possibly dancing. Have the party in a space that's suitable. If your party space is a small living room, move the furniture before the party begins. If the weather permits you can have the party in the backyard.
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Step 4
It's helpful to have a suitable activity available, but not planned. For example, at a first grader's party you can have games like pin the tail on the donkey or bean toss that are played at specific times. Teens won't enjoy this type of planning and child-like fun. But it does help to make an activity available to them. For example, if the party is outside you can put up a volleyball net. If the teens play basketball, have a hoop and balls available. If the party space is small and indoors you can also have a selection of DVDs available. Discuss which titles your teen would prefer beforehand. Your teen will have a blast at the party if they have some decision-making power beforehand in terms of who they can invite, what food is served and what activities are made available to guests.
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Step 5
As the parent you should be available at the party. But remember, teens like their freedom and space, so help to plan and set up the party beforehand, but allow them the chance to have fun during the party without your constant attention. If you discuss the party beforehand and agree on limits as long as you are home and available if needed, it's OK to give your teen space once the party begins. They will appreciate you for it.
