Teenagers & Summer Break: 3 Ways to Help Keep Your Teen Out of Trouble This Summer by Amy Liz Harrison

As COVID restrictions lift, some teens are preparing to party this summer. We, as parents, have the opportunity to help prevent trouble. 

I give my teenagers love and support no matter what. I understand they will experiment with things, but I will not shame them for their decisions. They’ve seen my mistakes. I drank to escape and it took me on a painful journey. My kids know I will give them second chances and grace, and appreciate their honesty. It helps us face whatever life throws at us.

Here are three 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 those kids get in trouble? I have banned together with the parents of my kid’s friends. We check their stories and issue the same punishment. 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. This won’t stop your teen from drinking or using, but shows that your house is available as a refuge for their friends. Maybe someone lost a parent, etc. My house became a safe haven for a friend once and it was the best thing we could have done.
3. Keep them busy. When they’re running from activity to activity, there are not many opportunities to get into trouble.

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