Often, especially near the end of the school year, a school or organization will sponsor a lock in party. Whether it’s for prom, graduation, or some other event, an overnight party is planned and hosted by the school or group. A church, scout troop, or community center can also host a lock in, and it may be held on school grounds or at some other pre-planned location.
A lock in party is much like a big slumber party, only everyone is “locked in” until morning. Students may only be checked out by their parents or guardians; otherwise, they are not allowed to leave. Chaperones are present to make sure those attending stay safe and follow the rules. Of course, no alcohol or other substances are allowed and chaperones keep an eye on amorous young couples. If one of the teens does attempt to leave, his or her parents will be notified immediately.
Most of the time, there isn’t a real problem with keeping teens at the lock in party because they are having fun. It’s a safer way for kids to get together, dance, listen to music, and stay up late talking and laughing. Plenty of junk food, cold drinks, their choice of music, and some form of fun including silly games, are generally enough to keep kids entertained. This type of party is a good way for teens to celebrate safely and stay out of trouble while doing so.
While there may be wild parties elsewhere, most parents feel better allowing their teens to celebrate in a more structured, supervised manner. If a school doesn’t host a lock in party after a big event, parents might consider recommending one or offering to help chaperone. Kids should be able to celebrate and enjoy their accomplishments, but few things are worse than having such occasions marred by tragedy. By having an organized, controlled party instead of leaving kids to do their own thing, there’s a much better chance that teens will remain safe and have wonderful memories of their school years.
A fun idea is to give each person attending the party a t-shirt or journal and have the others sign it. Much the same as teens sign each other’s yearbooks, these shirts or journals can be used for saving special sentiments regarding the occasion. Kids may also want to bring along disposable cameras to capture memories of the party on film.