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APPRECIATION FOR DAD ...
Father's Day is June 20. If there's a dad or stepdad that deserves some recognition, please tell us! We'll feature the comments in next week's newsletter. Click here to submit your comments >
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 TEENS... For many, the end of the school year signifies a transition into a new stage and for some of us that means entering the "teen years." We are also finding it means a new education for parents on teen resources and handling all the challenges and changes that come with being a pre-teen and teenager. There are so many issues parents have to begin addressing as kids enter their teen years from college applications to relationships. Of course for many that is if they can be pried away from their phones and computers.
This past week, we took the plunge and now our pre-teens have cell phones before they embark into Junior High this fall. It has been an interesting process as we talk with other parents about the pros and cons of kids and phones including what age their child may/may not have a phone, what add-on plans do you include, how do you monitor texting, parental controls, etc. It is truly a family decision that every parent can discuss with their pre-teen. Today's technology has sure added some extra challenges and decisions to parenting, but what is great is that there are better parental controls being set up for computers and with cell phones. There are definite perks to having the phone. Just yesterday, my daughter texted me from one end of Costco to meet me when it was time to check out. We are still adjusting to the noise of the incoming text messages and cell phone etiquette is being frequently discussed.
 We are finding that this is also an exciting time because our daughters are getting to show us their independence as they take on new roles. Last week they completed a day-long "Babysitter Training" course where they learned how to be responsible babysitters. This week, they're CITs at Safety Town as they help kindergartners learn safety skills. They're only 3 days into it and they are loving the experience and coming home with stories about each of their campers. We also joined the National Charity League this year which is a mother-daughter commitment from girls in the 7th-12th grade and their mothers where we will join other families in volunteering locally throughout the year.
Did all of you know that SBParent.com has resources through the teenage years? Be sure and check out our Teen category with information on: Academic Support, Babysitter Training, College Checklists, College Financial Support, Driving Schools, Internships/CIT Programs and Sports, Clubs, Activities... SCROLL BELOW for a list of TEEN RESOURCES and INFORMATION. Be sure to scroll through our events for teens below such as "Rock the Job" job training this Saturday and the upcoming Babysitter Trainings. For those of you looking ahead to college, make sure to learn more about the Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara.
 Read about our Mom in the Spotlight Beth Bailey. In addition to volunteering at her kids' schools, she is also a member of the Junior League and she recently launched her own business, Kiddo. Read more about Beth and learn what Kiddo Squeezies are. >>
The Summer Reading Program has kicked off at local libraries so don't forget to visit your local branch to "Make A Splash." In addition to logging books and earning prizes, the summer program offers great special events like Magic Shows and much more. Here's a printable PDF of the library's summer activities, or check our calendar for more details. Teens have the opportunity to participate in the "Make Waves at Your Library" program - read below for details.
A couple of links to items you won't want to miss...
PS: State St Mile... It was great to see so many families at the State Street Mile last weekend! If your child finished after they ran out of medals, you can contact Megan Rheinschild by email to request medal(s). |
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