crisis pregnancy

Making Prom a Success

The success of prom night begins long before the tux is put on. As we've already mentioned, talking about your teen's prom-night expectations is vital. Here are some other key action steps to think about in advance:

  • Discuss a budget. Life goes on after the prom ... as do payments on flowers, photos, rentals, etc. Relieve some of the pressure he might feel to "keep up with the Joneses." Help your son plan a memorable evening that's also economical.
  • Establish an itinerary. Make sure he communicates it clearly to his date's parents as well. Be specific. Where will dinner be? When does it begin and end? Is there an after-prom activity? Who will be in the vehicle? Who will drive? Feel free to verify the information with phone calls.
  • Have a heart-to-heart talk about sexual self-control. He should commit to respecting both his own body and his date's. (Young ladies in particular should be careful about what they wear. Modesty and good taste should be the rule rather than creating unnecessary temptation.)
  • Provide prayerful support. Let him know you'll be praying for a safe and enjoyable evening. Give your teen phone money and the invitation to call "Dad's All Night Taxi Service" in case plans turn sour (a disrespectful date, a driver who chooses to drink, etc.). Teens need to know you'll be there for them without creating a scene.

Background Information

Behind the Scenes of a Teen Pregnancy
A look at the thoughts and feelings she — and you — are going through.

Abortion Risks
While abortion seems like a "quick fix" for a long-term problem, it is a permanent decision that carries physical, emotional and spiritual risks.

Deciding About Adoption
When considering adoption as an alterative to raising your baby, these answers may dispel adoption myths.

Questions and Answers

Why do I feel like this pregnancy has pulled me in so many different directions? I feel so overwhelmed with all the ramifications of this decision I must make. How can I sort it all out?
Answer

My pregnant daughter has her whole life still ahead of her. Would it be better for her to place her baby with a family through adoption, parent her baby or have an abortion?
Answer

Review Frequently Asked Questions

Stories

Things Seen and Unseen
A woman in a white coat walked into the room and flipped on the fluorescent lights, jarring my wife awake. The jarring was just beginning.

Left to Suffer
Abortion can leave a woman feeling more empty and alone than she ever dreamed possible.

Life is Sacred
Sometimes the choices we make bring pain. Thankfully, one woman turned to God for healing.

Taboo Grief: Men and Abortion
It's not something most men talk about, but the ones who've lost a child to abortion bear many scars.

If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.
Share Your Story

Other Things to Consider

Faith Helps
God may be the only person who understands what you're going through.

What the Choice is All About
For a long time it baffled me. I could never understand why anyone would want to be pro-choice. But this past week I finally got it.

RelationshipsBlended Families, Parents and Adult Children

TransitionsPreparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest