Keeping up with our Tailgate Fever promotion we’re delighted to feature Jim Higley, from Bobblehead Dad, discussing tailgating party ideas for teens. Take it away Jim…
When I was a little guy, my dad had a secret trick he’d sometimes use to get me to try foods that I had no intention of putting in my mouth. He put the words “Superman” in front of them. Scrambled eggs became “Superman Eggs.” Sauteed carrots with dill were “Superman Carrots.” An accidental dollop of ketchup on a hamburger? You got it. That would transform that piece of meat into a “Superman Burger.” And I’d gladly gobble things up.
The words parents use with kids can make—or break—a conversation, can’t they? And that is never so true than with teenagers. A while back, I suggested to my high school-age son that we have a party (“party” being the key word in this conversation) before one of their upcoming school events. I was thinking of something simple. Sandwiches. Chips. Just a little gathering for everyone before they reconvened back at school. I thought I was awesome to suggest it. He thought it was “lame” and reminded me that they weren’t little kids. Got it, son. And you’re welcome.
Take Two. (A few weeks later) I asked my high school-age son if he’d be interested in having a Tailgate for some of his pals before an upcoming school event. He paused then asked “What would we do?” I told him we could have sandwiches and soda. Dessert. Nothing fancy. And if they wanted they could play some tailgating games. “Maybe,” he replied. Two hours later I heard him on his cell phone. In his room. Telling some friends about his upcoming, and awesome, tailgate. You’re welcome, son. And, yes, I know. I’m awesome, too.
TIPS FOR HOSTING A TAILGATE FOR TEENS:
A tailgate is the perfect way to have fun with teens! And if you don’t have a backyard, you still have options! Renters should talk to their landlord about common areas available to use!
- Keep the menu simple. Teens don’t eat much. They’d rather talk. Sandwiches with a selection of meat and cheeses will make them all happy!
- Have at least one salad for those kids who prefer lighter foods!
- Have plenty of soda and water (or other options like lemonade). Individual containers like cans or plastic bottles work best.
- Set up a couple of games appropriate to your location. Your teen may think these are “kiddy” but trust your instincts. Teens need activities. All you need to do is ask a few kids to start in the fun and that should get the competitive spirit going.
- Make sure parents know about drop off and pick up plans. And make sure parents know you’ll be there. (Also, ask for help if you need extra adult hands!).
- Make arrangements for some music.
- Make sure seating options are conducive to kids hanging out.
- Have your teen recruit one or two friends to help set-up! They’ll love the responsibility!
And for more tailgating fun, head over to the Homes.com Facebook page – and join in their “Homes.com Has Tailgate Fever Sweepstakes” celebration. They’ve teamed up with the friendly folks at ForRent.com and Nature’s Own to fuel your tailgating fever now through September 30, 2012. While you’re there, enter for a chance to win a $2,000 ultimate tailgating package!
Christine is the Content Marketing Coordinator for Homes.com. She's a small town girl at heart, who currently lives in Norfolk, VA with her husband and their fur baby. When she's not working, she enjoys cooking, decorating, traveling, and binge watching Netflix. As a proud Virginia Tech alum, she also loves cheering on the Hokies!
