For parents, the primary prom-related concerns aren't financial. Our biggest prom worries are the risky behaviors associated with proms, most specifically driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and unsafe sex.

While drinking is one of the typical risks teens take, don't treat it lightly. And remember, knowing your kid and having open communication are two of the best ways to head off serious trouble, including alcohol abuse.

Being a golden kid creates its own kind of stress, and shy kids who don't socialize much can suffer from social anxiety. That first taste of booze, with its melting away of inhibitions, can seem like a magic bullet to an introverted person. Take it from me: I was one of them

Let's be honest: When was the last time you talked about alcohol ads with your kids? I don't mean in a "Wow, that was a cool ad they had on during the Super Bowl," kind of way.

Mothers, your teenage daughters are watching you very carefully. They will partake in the activities that you partake in.

When we pressure children to achieve, we cut them off from their sources of inspiration, their passions and their natural curiosity.

This week's Family Dinner Table Talk, from HuffPost and The Family Dinner book: The CDC puts it pretty plainly: “Driving drunk is never OK.” ...

Raising a teenager is like being a Kremlinologist during the Cold War. For those trying to navigate, here's a primer on how to attend the prom at one suburban New York high school. At least these appear to have been the rules yesterday. They may have changed by today. 

Just as Twitter and Facebook enabled young revolutionaries to gather together for instant protests, social media has helped modern kids mobilize promptly against snooping grown-ups.

Allowing our kids to drink at home as a way to avoid drunk driving doesn't get at the real problem with our attitude toward drinking in this country.