> During middle childhood, youngsters need supervision. A responsible adult should be available to get them ready and off to school in the morning and watch over them after school until you return home from work.
> Children approaching adolescence (the eleven-and twelve-year-olds) should not come home to an empty house in the afternoon unless they show unusual maturity for their age.
> Although being physically present is the best way to supervise a child, sometimes that is not possible. If alternative adult supervision is not available, parents should make special efforts to supervise their children from a distance. Children should have a set time when they are expected to arrive at home and should check in with a neighbor or with a parent by telephone.
> When evaluating child-care options, determine whether other family members can handle these responsibilities. For example, does a grandparent or other relative live nearby, and is he or she available and willing to help? Is there a responsible teenager-perhaps an older sibling-who can supervise your child for a couple of hours in the afternoon until you arrive home?
> If you choose a commercial after-school program, inquire about the training of the staff. There should be a high child-to-staff ratio, and the rooms and the playground should be safe.