Birthdays - Sweet 16

In this article we're going to discuss a birthday that is probably one of the most important to your young adult, the sweet 16. Even though once your daughter or son reaches the age of 16 they are still technically children, they feel very grown up and this day is very important to them so keep this in mind when planning the big bash. Here are some tips to make the day go as well as possible allowing for the raging hormones that are bound to pop up during this time. The first thing you need to do is sit down with your 16 year old and ask him or her what they would like for their special day. It is after all their day and they should have the kind of party that they want, within reason of course. Make sure though you discuss the ground rules of the party such as noise level and curfew and appropriate behavior with your teen before the celebration actually begins. There should be no miscommunication here. Make it perfectly clear what is and what is NOT acceptable. Make up a guest list based on the space available and your child's desires. Make your 16 year old understand that you can't invite the whole world so keep the list down to closest friends if possible. Think of a creative location for the party such as the beach or maybe a roller skating or ice skating rink. Even a bowling alley or pizza parlor is fine. Leave this up to your child within reason. Make sure you send out your invitations at least two weeks in advance. You want to make sure you give everyone enough time to respond and get gifts. Whatever menu you come up with for the party make sure you have plenty of food. Get extra if there are going to be boys there as boys at this age are very active and get very hungry. If you're not up to cooking, order pizza. This is a favorite of everyone and you really can't go wrong with a few well made pies covered with sausage or pepperoni. Have a variety of drinks at the party. Even though teens drink a lot of soda they will not be upset to see things like punch and sparkling cider. As for the music, buy a bunch of blank tapes and let your kid put together a mix of favorite tunes. The last thing your kid wants is for mom or dad to pick out the dance selections. Let's face it, parents are just not cool when it comes to kids music. Unless of course your parent is Ozzy Osborne. Order or make a very special cake. Decorate it up to the sky. After all, this is a very important day and the cake should be one that makes a big hit just looking at it. Of course, it should taste good too. If you're going to be at the party, keep your presence low. Remember, this is your kid's day, not yours. By following the above tips you should have no trouble giving your son or daughter a sixteenth birthday that won't soon be forgotten.