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Camp may solve summer day-care problem

Q:My 11-year-old son is too old for day care and too young to stay at home while I work. He's on the brink of still being a kid yet yearning to be a teenager. Summers are particularly stressful for both of us. Does anyone have any solutions that work during this preteen age?

Check into academic programs offered by school districts in or near your area. There are several choices, but the main three usually fall under enrichment, academic or sports. The enrichment classes are usually fun and light-hearted, while the other two have a more serious tone. --Stacey Patterson in Honolulu

From Jodie: Check into day camps for kids who are around his age. Since he is interested in being treated older, try not to sign him up for one that might group him with kids two or more years younger. By the same token, make sure he won't be the youngest in a group of kids several years older. Day camps are Monday through Friday and can last from two to six weeks. Many start quite early, but if it's not early enough for your work schedule, some offer a before and after program that might accommodate it. There are tons of camps to choose from but be sure it is something he is interested in beforehand.

After-school and summer school programs are often a good way to go. Enrichment classes especially can be fun. Best of all, kids are learning the entire time, but it is so much fun, they don't realize it.

Don't forget teens in your neighborhood that are responsible and can drive. Often during the summer, a neighborhood teen can fill in gaps between the "before" and "after" time, and may cost a little less.

Family columnist Jodie Lynn answers parents' questions on her Web site at www.parenttoparent.com; you can also share your tips to help others.