Having a Safe and Enjoyable Prom and After-Prom Experience

For many parents, this evening brings as much pride as it does concern. Even as your teen becomes more independent, your role remains essential in discussing safety, limits, and thoughtful decision-making. Here are some simple, practical tips to help support your teen so they can have a safe and enjoyable night.  

Supporting Rather Than Forbidding 

Supporting means being present to listen, talk, and guide, not to control or make decisions for your teen. An open, judgment-free conversation increases the chances they will turn to you if they need help. 

Example: 

Instead of saying, “You’re not allowed to drink,” you can say, “If you choose to drink, here’s how to do it more safely.” 

Take this opportunity to talk about: 

• Possible effects of substances 
• Combinations to avoid 
• Risks associated with substance use 

Explaining the Effects of Substances 

Some teens may choose to use substances to have fun, relieve pressure, or celebrate with friends. No matter the reason, if your teen plans to use a substance, they must understand that its effects depend on three factors: 

• The person: mood, fatigue, stress level, experience 
• The substance: type, amount, concentration 
• The context: setting, atmosphere, people present 

Example: 

Your teen has used cannabis before. A friend offers them a “puff.” Even if their previous experience was positive, the effect may be different because: 

• The variety is different 
• The product is stronger 
• The context is more emotional 

Understanding the law of effect helps teens recognize risks and make safer choices. 

Main Risks Related to Substance Use 

Clearly explaining what can happen when using substances helps teens prepare and recognize warning signs. 

• Loss of inhibition: saying or doing things they wouldn’t normally do 
• Mood changes: irritability, sadness, quick reactions 
• Loss of physical control: trouble staying awake, slowed movements, reduced reflexes 
• Poor judgment: risky driving, fights, unsafe or non-consensual sexual situations 
• Unwanted effects: bad trip, overdose 

Consent and Respecting Boundaries 

Consent must always be clear, freely given, and enthusiastic. 

Remind your teen that:

• Silence or hesitation is not a “yes” 
• Intoxication can affect a person’s ability to consent 
• Consent can be withdrawn at any time 
• It’s essential to respect both your own boundaries and those of others 
• Someone who is unconscious, very confused, or unaware cannot give consent
• Parties, alcohol, and excitement can complicate situations. Thinking ahead helps teens act with respect and caution.

Strategies to Reduce Risks

Remind your teen they don’t need to use substances to enjoy their night. If they choose to, here are practical ways to reduce risks: 

Before and during use:

• Eat beforehand or while using to slow absorption 
• Go slowly to observe effects 
• Alternate with water to avoid dehydration 
• Avoid mixing substances

Stay alert:

• Respect their own pace 
• Keep their drink in sight 
• Remember the law of effect

Consent and respect :

• Check in with their own consent and others’ 
• Tell a friend or trusted adult what they are taking 
• Plan their way home in advance

Available Resources

Several organizations can support youth with questions about sexuality, substance use, or protective materials (e.g., condoms). For example: 

• Oasis – Mobile Outreach Unit 
• TRIL 
• Aire Ouverte 
• Your local youth center 
• School nurse

These services can answer questions your teen may not feel comfortable asking at home. 

Planning a Safe Way Home

Help your teen plan their way home before the event. If you offer to pick them up, reassure them they can call you without fear of judgment. If that’s not possible: 

• Coordinate with other parents 
• Plan for a designated driver 
• Use apps like Uber or Lyft

The most important thing is that your teen always has a safe way to get home. 

Reference(in french)
En mode ado, Bal des finissants
Tu as le dernier mot, après-bal
Association Québécoise pour la Promotion de la Santé des personnes Utilisatrices de Drogues,  Le Blender : Guide sur les mélanges de drogues… et les risques qui en découlent.