• Teenagers are typically highly social since the teenage years are when young people learn the most about how to interact with others. Sporting events, proms and sleepovers give teenagers opportunities outside the classroom to get to know each other and discover whom they get along with best. Food is an important element at many social events, and there are many options to consider when organizing a teen dinner.
  
  

Formal

• Teens typically enjoy themselves at functions such as prom and homecoming, but these events take place only a couple of times a year. Having a formal dinner with a group of teens encourages them to dress up, and the meal can be a fancier variety since the dinner will serve a special occasion. These functions can be used to reinforce proper manners and table etiquette and can be a welcome change from standard teen outings.
  
  

Pot-Luck

• Having each teen cook his own contribution to the dinner will guarantee plenty of food is available, while encouraging the teens to learn culinary skills outside a classroom setting. Teens could use the experience to learn a recipe or try new things -- and since they are cooking for their friends, they are more likely to give their best effort in preparing their portions of the meal. This also gives them conversation topics as they sample and critique each others' culinary contributions.
  
  

Costume Party

• Costume parties are normally reserved for Halloween but holding a costume dinner another time of the year can be a fun activity that allows teens to express their creativity. Since costume shops are harder to find when Halloween isn't coming up, teens can be encouraged to make their own costumes from objects and clothing around the house. Depending on the interests of the teens involved, you could also set a costume theme based on a movie franchise, period or any other criteria.