The time has come your teenager has waited for all of their life—prom night. It will be a night of fun and enchantment, and a time they will never forget. These are some useful tips to help your teenager get ready for the big night.

 Tip #1: Plan your budget accordingly. Prom night will probably not be a cheap occasion. Shop around for a dress or a tux. Look for sales and deals. However, you want your teen to look his or her best, so let them pick out the clothes. However, set a limit and be clear about it. It is possible to look good without spending a lot of money.

 Tip #2: Talk to your teen about what to expect. Tell them what your prom night was like. Tell them what type of things they can expect to take place at the prom such as pictures, crowning of the king and queen, and dancing. Make sure they have enough money with them in case there is a charge for pictures, entrances, or dinner.

 Tip #3: Set the rules. You need to communicate what you expect from your teen on prom night. Let them know what time you expect them to be home and that you will not tolerate any bad behavior. Setting a curfew is not a bad thing. No doubt about it, the prom is a special occasion. Therefore, a special curfew is in order. Discuss the after prom options with your teenager and use them to decide the curfew. If after prom is an all night lock-in, that’s even better. If there is a private party at a home, call the parents of the teenager who is hosting. Tell your teen that it is ok to say no to sex, drugs, and alcohol if these options arise. Tell them that prom night is a very special night that they will always remember, and they do not want to ruin it with drugs, sex or alcohol.

 Tip #4: Trust your teenager. This is their special night and they want to make it a special memory. This is one of the last parties they will have with their high school friends before graduation. Show them that you trust them. If you show nervousness or anxiety, it will only turn their special night into something bad.

 Tip #5: Take lots of pictures. Even though your teen may protest, both will both want those pictures later.

 There are several ways that you, as a parent, can help out at the prom. You can be a chaperone, you can serve drinks or dinner/snacks, or you can chauffeur. Your teen may be a little reluctant about your help, but assure them that you are not doing it to spy on them but because you would like to be a part of their special night. Tell them that parents like to have fun to, and that the prom can be something for both of you to remember. However, if your teen is absolutely against you being at the prom or helping out, just back off. Forcing yourself into the night will create hard feelings.

 You can help your teen get ready for his/her special prom night by following the suggested tips. Make it a special night for you and for them.