I started reading YA when my daughter was a young teen. Parents should always educate themselves about what their children are likely to find on bookstore shelves and library shelves! YA books are not always what they appear to be.... Having said that, many of the YA books I have read were just as good as many of the adult titles I've enjoyed.
Between work and two busy teens, scheduling conflicts are a fact of life in my home. It irritates me to have to miss sports events and dance performances, but I get over it. However, my husband and I always try to make whatever arrangements are necessary when the kids are receiving academic honors---we want them to know how much priority we place on academics.