Prom and after-prom are unique moments. It’s a time to celebrate the end of high school and all the hard work you’ve put in. Some teens are in the mood to party. Others may feel pressure to drink or have sex.

Remember that teenagers have:

• Varied knowledge and experience with sex, substance use and screens.
• Different consumption profiles (e.g. non-user, explorer, occasional).

You may have concerns or wonder how to talk to your teen about the after-prom. This tool is designed to support you in helping your teen prepare.

You can:

• Ask him or her how he or she sees the evening. Listen and be open to what he or she shares with you.
• Open the discussion with your teen about substance use, screen use, sexual relationships and safe travel. Emphasize the importance of:
  • Making their own choices.
  • Respecting their own limits and those of others.

All choices are valid: to go to the after-prom party or not, to drink or use drugs or not, to have sex or not.

• Share the After-prom party: you have the last word! tool with them.
• Remain available for your teen during the evening. He or she may find it reassuring to know that you are available when needed. .

Substance use

Bring up the subjects of substance use (alcohol, drugs, nicotine, and energy drinks) and their effects.

Remind them that:

• They don’t need to drink or take drugs to have fun.
• There are risks related to alcohol abuse and binge drinking.
• If they drink or use drugs, there are tips for eliminating negative effects:
  • Avoid drinking or taking drugs when alone.
  • Avoid consuming them all at the same time.
  • Use a small amount at a time.
  • Avoid mixing them.
• Not to hesitate to ask for help if your teen or one of their friends appears unwell after taking something,
  no matter what it is.

For more details on ways to raise the subject of substance use and screen use with your teenager, consult the Wanna talk? tool.

Screen use

Raise your teen’s awareness of cell phone use at parties. It allows him/her to:

• Remain in contact with you.
• Plan travel.
• Contact a support resource if needed.

If your teen wants to take photos or videos, you can encourage them to ask these questions:

• If it was me, would I be happy to see it?
• Does everyone agree?
• Will what is shown cause problems later (e.g. alcohol or drug use)?
• Am I sure that I want to share this on social media?

The same goes for sending messages or posting comments. In any case, taking a moment to step back and wait until the next day can help you avoid leaving traces online that you may come to regret…

For more questions to ask themselves, click here (in French only)

Sex

Open the discussion of sex by stressing pleasure, consent and protection against STBBIs and unwanted pregnancy.

Consent must be clear and enthusiastic. You have the right to change your mind.

Remember that it is harder for someone who has consumed alcohol or drugs to give their consent.

You can leave condoms within your teen’s reach.

Safe travel

• Be aware of the location of the prom and the afterprom party.
• Plan a safe return with your teen by thinking about the various options:
  • Designated driver: the designated person is the one who DIDN’T have a drop of alcohol or any drugs at all.
  • Public transit or taxi (if available in the area).
  • Trustworthy adult.
• Plan a safe return with your teen by thinking about the various options:

Support resources

• Tel-jeunes: 1-800 263-2266
• Drugs: Help and Referral: 1-800 265-2626
• Info-Social : 811, option 2
• Sexual health
• Need help now

In collaboration with the CISSS des Laurentides and educational and community partners