Moms Talk: Should Homecoming Night Have A Curfew?

Q: Do you set a curfew for your kids for nights of school dances? What is a reasonable time and is it different for boys and girls? What about parties after? Do you let the kids go to these?

A: Even with a high school Junior and Freshman, I still haven't really been faced with this yet.  Until they are driving, I'm still across ride sharing etc.  So they're not really doing any anything late that isn't a regular school activity. I suppose I will have to determine according to parties involved, and perceived risks at the time. 

I do know that I am NOT looking forward to it. 

One thing my kids know is that I'll always touch base with party parents and am shocked at how some parents are too embarrassed to do this.  Parents always appreciate other parents who get the scoop.  I always want to know from the adult in charge that there is in fact a party at their house, the time frame, and that they are actually expecting my child.  

Maybe that's why my kids don't ask to go to parties!!!

Truth be told, I remember the sense of security it gave me to know that I didn't have to go to those wilder parties that were out there because my parents had no patience for teen parties without adult presence and/or without purpose. (ex: I did go to Cast Parties, because there was a point to them, and I "earned" them).  I never even bothered to ask about random parties and it was great to be able to blame my "stupid parents" for not letting me go...-Audrey Greenwood, mom of 3

A: Thankfully, my kids are all still too young to have to worry about stuff like this. But, I remember being a teenager and I was one of the kids who stayed out all night, or at least half of the night and I did go to the parties. The thought of sending my kids off to them scares the daylights out of me. Hopefully by the time my oldest asks to go, I will have a solution to the dilemna. -Tammy Bester, mom of 3