All the hype about Prom—is it really worth it? Girls and their parents spend so much for so little, really. Dresses and shoes, of course, are usually expensive. Then there’s a corsage to buy, pictures, hair, makeup, nails, etc. Add in a dose of anxiety about finding a suitable date, and I have to wonder if it’s really worth it. Let me tell you about my experience.

I was so lucky to find a discounted dress at Deb’s in Grand Island last October. It was on sale for about $25. I saw a tiny flaw on the breast and brought it to the cashier’s attention. I received an additional 55% off! HALLELUJAH! Imagine my glee in spending so little for a PROM DRESS! (Sorry to shout, but it was exciting.) Getting Princess Ysabela’s hair done cost me $25 (thank you, Lisa), and a wrist corsage was a little over $17 (thank you, Lynn). Momma was rocking, right? Go me! Anyway, I thought I was rocking too. As I mentally patted myself on the back, I noticed my princess was manifesting signs of stress. Stress? Why ever would that be? How do I know?

Ysabela was smiling, but her silver shoes became her focus once she got to the gym. She complained that they hurt her feet. I suspect that was simply a symptom of insecurity and nerves. It makes sense. Like a guest speaker at school said, “Kids walk on stage and perform every time they enter the school.” I had never thought of high school like that. If I view Prom in the same light, no wonder Ysabela was using her shoes as a focal point for her nerves! It was easier than admitting to herself (or me) that she was feeling insecure. Oh, teen angst! It’s a battle we all must fight—and hopefully win.

Is the stress worth it? Prom is an important event in a teen’s life. As a parent, I think we need to be vigilant and do something if we notice our children’s stress levels escalating. I, for one, will pay close attention to my daughter’s clues, both verbal and nonverbal.

Princess Ysabela