Help your kids stay out of trouble

Every year, cops remind us that kids can get into trouble during summer break.

Since parents still have jobs, they can’t be home to watch Becky and Ben all summer. Camps are all right if they’re affordable and convenient, but sometimes they’re neither. And when kids get to middle school or beyond, they may inform you that they’re too grown up for summer camp. You’ve probably heard it: “Give me a break, Mom and Dad. Camps are for kids. Come on. I’m almost 12.”

Left with too much free time, youngsters can make bad choices. “Hanging out” at the mall is almost never a good pastime.

No matter where your children go, there are choices to be made. It’s easy to have a lapse in judgment. Adults do it all the time, so kids are easily susceptible to making bad decisions.

Latchkey children can get resentful about parents who are never home. Eventually, a child might decide that mischief is fun. Vandalism goes up during summer, probably a byproduct of adolescent boredom.

Youngsters who run wild are always vulnerable to bad choices. They can easily pick the wrong friends and make other bad decisions.

Here are some suggestions for the rest of the summer. Remember, of course, that kids should always go in groups, never alone.

Go to a library. Reading is cheap and rewarding. Check city hall or the recreation and park district for other activities. They often offer sports camps or leagues that are truly affordable. Check to see if there are one-day road trips to museums or amusement parks. Contact the Boys & Girls Club at 2860 Lemon Drive and ask about their programs. Learn to swim at the “Y” or go bowling or see a movie.

Summer is almost half over. Help Becky and Ben make the most of it.