Summer Rules for Kids

Summertime is a time when kids kick back and enjoy the pool, their friends and homework free evenings. Make sure your child enjoys his summer by keeping him safe, learning and having fun. These summer rules for kids will keep your child from falling into trouble and forgetting what he's learned. These rules will also keep your kids safe during the summer season.

Summer Rules for Kids

Make sure your child knows his or her curfew and that you enforce the curfew hours. Tweens need to know their limits, and a curfew is a good way to make sure your child is home before trouble can start.

Tweens need to know what dangers present themselves over the summer break. Talk to your tween about smoking, drowning dangers, inhalants, drugs, and other concerns. Be sure your child understands first aid, and knows when to ask for help from an adult or from authorities. Also be sure your child takes precautions when playing outside. Sunscreen should be worn, and safety equipment should be used when your child is riding a bike, scooter or skateboard.

Make reading a priority by enforcing a reading only hour every evening. During this hour all electronics are turned off so your child (and you) can enjoy a book, or a magazine.

Every child should be helping out with chores during the summer. Make sure your child understand his responsibilities. Possible chores include emptying the dishwasher, taking care of the pets, and helping to fix dinner. Encourage your child to pick and complete a chore every day without having to be asked or reminded.

Your child should understand that he can't always rely on you to keep him entertained. Tweens are old enough to find something to do on their own. Have your child create a list of boredom busters to use when he's out of ideas.

Make outdoor play a part of your summer rules. Kids should spend time outside everyday, even if it's just riding a bike or walking around the block.

Your summer rules should include a strict bedtime hour. Tweens often don't get enough sleep, so pick a reasonable hour for your child's bedtime, and stick to it.

Limit the television and the computer for a certain amount of time every day. Be sure your child has the opportunity to find other ways to spend his free time.