The first step is to involve your children from the start. Let them know your bottom line, then be prepared to work with them. Many children are ready to go away to summer camp by the time they re 10 years old. A range of camps are available, offering wonderful experiences. Other children may love to go and spend a week with relatives, whether that be with grandparents or aunts and uncles.
Volunteer work is a marvelous option.
Have your kids contact the volunteer bureau for information. Volunteer work gives them an opportunity to learn new skills, have fun, and meet people. Plus, at the end of summer they'll have a letter of reference to keep for when they look for their first job. For children who live in university cities, there are summer programs some kids just love. These programs are not seriously academic, but focus on hands-on experiences and lots of sports.