Plan a Teen Sleepover

Giggling, makeovers, secrets -- the teen sleepover is a rite of passage full of memory making. Teens are often content to gather informally and entertain themselves, but some planning allows you to control the chaos. As the host of the slumber party, you are responsible for keeping all of the teens safe from the time they arrive until they depart. Setting ground rules and planning safe activities keep the slumber party guests entertained and in one piece.

Instructions

    • 1

      Time the sleepover to avoid conflicts. Choose a weekend night so the kids aren't up late on a school night. Avoid sleepovers around major holidays or community events when families are likely to be busy. Decide on a starting and ending time so you don't have teens in your house indefinitely.

    • 2

      Set a limit for the guest list so the house doesn't get too crowded. Limiting the number of guests also reduces the risk of disagreements and saves money since you won't have to buy as much food. Talk to your teen about the limits.

    • 3

      Contact the parents of the teens invited to the sleepover. Share the information about the sleepover so all of the parents are on the same page. Get contact information for them in case of an emergency.

    • 4

      Meet with your teen to let her have a say in the party details. She likely has ideas for the activities and food she wants for the sleepover. Set parameters if you need to keep the sleepover manageable and on budget.

    • 5

      Plan a menu for the party. Teens are likely to enjoy snack-type food they can grab and munch while hanging out. Ideas include chips, pretzels, mini pizzas, popcorn and sandwiches. Ask your teen for her list of favorites so she doesn't turn up her nose at what you choose.

    • 6

      Prepare activities for the sleepover guests. Common activities include watching movies, playing games, doing makeovers and listening to music or dancing. Stock up on all of the materials you'll need for the activities your teen wants to do.

    • 7

      Establish rules for the sleepover and talk to your teen about them before the party. Examples include no leaving the house, no phone calls and going to bed at a certain time. Explain the rules to the guests when they arrive so everyone knows the expectations.

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