Make Sure Your Teen Has a Fun and Safe Summer

School is out and the one thing all teenagers have in common is their continuous search for ways to have fun.

Summertime means more free time for most kids, which provides the perfect opportunity for parents to talk about rules and expectations they have for proper summer behavior. “When our kids are younger, we tend to get more involved in managing their time, making sure they are safe and talking with them about what we expect,” says Kathryn Wesolowski, program manager of the Rainbow Injury Prevention Center. “Teenagers may seem more mature and responsible, and it can be tempting to view them as miniature adults, but they aren’t. Parents still need to monitor their teens over the summer and keep the lines of communication open.”

Check In Often 
The teenage years can be very vulnerable, and parents are responsible for protecting their teens and guiding them through this stage so they become responsible adults. One of the most important ways to do this is by simply being there. “Be present in their life, but don’t be their friend,” says Carolyn Landis, PhD, an assistant professor of pediatrics who specializes in pediatric psychology at Rainbow. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Know where your teen is going, who they are hanging out with and what time you expect them home. Setting clear rules and guidelines will make things easier for you and them.”

Dr. Landis also adds that by telling your teens you will stop by the place where they say they will be, you are letting them know you care. However, this doesn’t work unless you follow through with what you say. “Check in on your teens often. You are letting them know you care about them and that you want them to be safe. If they follow the family rules, reward them for it,” says Dr. Landis.

Parents should think creatively about activities their teens can get involved with that will keep them busy and out of trouble. Encouraging your teens to get a job or volunteer their time can keep them active and build their self-confidence. “It’s really beneficial for teenagers to have something to do during the summer. Whether they enjoy sports or music or decide to get a job, these are constructive activities that will build their character and add to their resume,” says Dr. Landis. Teenagers have a different way of thinking than adults do, and they believe nothing bad will happen to them when they choose to engage in risky behaviors. Encourage them to get involved in positive activities that they enjoy instead of spending their summer days at home alone.

Hospitals, business offices and animal shelters are all places that welcome teens to volunteer their time, and many can use the extra set of helping hands. Parents should assist their teens in researching different options and coaching them in what to say when calling local places to see if they are looking for volunteers.

Talk with Your Teen
Summertime is the perfect opportunity for parents to talk with their teenagers and open the lines of communication.

“Communicate with your kids what your expectations and values are. Make sure they are prepared for difficult situations, and make sure they know how you would handle certain situations,” says Dr. Landis. While teenagers aren’t quite adults, they do have the ability to think for themselves and make responsible choices. The goal of summer should be to have fun while being safe and smart.