5 Ways Parents Can Keep Their Teens Out Of Trouble This Summer ~ My Life Your Way

The summer holidays are great for teenagers - 6 weeks of free time to spend with their mates - what could be better?! But for us parents it can be worrying not knowing who they are with and what they are up to. It is important that your teens know how to stay safe and have fun without getting into trouble. The summer is a time for kids to enjoy their freedom and be free from the school routine. However, it can also be a time for them to get into trouble. In order to prevent this, parents should pay close attention to their children and make sure they are not doing anything that could put them at risk. Here are some top ways parents can keep their teens out of trouble this summer.

Five people walk and chat on a city sidewalk beside red brick buildings, perhaps discussing ways parents can keep their teens out of trouble this summer.

1. Know who your teen is hanging out with and team up with their parents.

Do the children your teens hang out with often get in trouble? Team up with the other parents so you can double check your kids' version of events and issue the same punishment if necessary. This creates a no-game mentality and the teens can’t hide or lie because the parents are all on the same page.

2. Issue an open-door policy at your house.

When I was a child my mother made my friends very unwelcome at my house so I ended up at different house parties, driving around and hanging out in parks. I would rather my teens are safe at home so their friends will always be welcome here. This won’t stop your teen from drinking or using drugs but shows that your house is available as a refuge for their friends. Some of your child's friends may not have a happy home life and your home could become a safe haven for them.

3. Keep them busy.

When they’re running from activity to activity, there are not many opportunities to get into trouble. Let them have some free time but not 6 whole weeks of doing nothing. Look for local youth groups running sessions, look at online summer learning and take them on days out if you aren't working.

4. Monitor their social media

Parents should be monitoring their teen's internet and social media accounts as well as their calls and text messages. My daughter knows that the condition of her having a phone means that I can spot check it every so often. You might pick up some trouble between friends or plans that you weren't aware of.

Three people with raised arms enjoy a sunset on a bridge, their backs to the camera and scenic views in the background—perfect inspiration for parents seeking exciting ways to keep their teens out of trouble this summer.

5. Communicate

Teenagers are more likely to stay out of trouble when they feel that their parents are on their side and have the same goals as them. It is important for parents to be able to communicate with them, show them love and support in order for the teenager to feel like they have a stable foundation in life.

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