1. Plan Party Games & Activities
Plan activities like party games or door prize drawings that engage people and promote fun! Games that are collaborative and involve physical activity tend to create an environment of stimulation and collaboration. Our top 5 family games for parties are:
- Scrabble
- Charades
- Chinese Checkers
- Jenga
- Twister
2. Lock Up Prescription Drugs
As you will most certainly have many children in your house, it is important that review your medicine inventory card and lock up your prescription drugs in a safe and preferably hidden location. It is safe to say that with all the people going in and out of the house, many people at your party will have to frequent the restroom. Since many homeowners store their prescription drugs in the bathroom medicine cabinet, it is important to be conscious and proactive by placing medication in an unaccessible location.
3. Focus on Moderation
While being a good party host seems like priority #1, safety should be the first thing on your mind. Drinking at a party is not mandatory for having a good time. If you would like to offer an open bar, consider having a limited supply of alcohol with a ratio of no more than two drinks per invited adult guest. Children are sponges who are soaking up information just by watching you. By modeling healthy habits and demonstrating that a good time can be had by all with little or no alcohol, your children are more likely to follow suit in the future. Also consider moderation when it comes to sodas and other sugary foods and drinks.
3. Select A Theme
Create a stand-out experience by choosing a fun theme. Incorporate your theme into your invitations, party favors and thank you cards. Leave your guests with wonderful memories.
Here's a list of our top 5 themes for safe family parties:
- Luau/Hawaiian
- Sports/Local Team
- Moustache
- Mexican Fiesta
- Decades (60's, 70's, 80's, etc.)
4. Provide Plenty of Food
This is your time to shine! Watch a couple of episodes of Top Chef or pick some recipes out of your local Foodie blog that will be sure to surprise your guests' eyes and taste buds! Did somebody say truffled Macaroni & Cheese? Yum! Don't have lots of time? No worries! Bring in dishes from a local restaurant or platters from a supermarket or warehouse club. Take note of your guests' dietary needs and plan to offer something for everyone. Provide plenty of food and enjoy watching your family and friends dig in.
'Til The Cows Come Home...
Being a fabulous host is easy & fun. It begins with you thinking about your guests from their arrival until their departure. By planning engaging party games, locking up prescription drugs, focusing on safety, providing plenty of food and creating a themed experience, you will earn high praise among those closest in your circle. Using the 4 tips above will allow you to host a fun, safe party with your family and prevent unexpected problems. Role-modeling responsible party-hosting also supports your children in growing up safe, healthy, and drug-free!
Looking to learn more about having safe homes and communities? Interested in preventing prescription drug abuse? Sign up below and complete your training to become an official Informed Families Ambassador and receive your FREE Lock Your Meds Toolkit!
