Summer Vacation Blues: How to Convince Your Child to Make the Most of the Break

Review the degree requirements for your student's chosen major to determine if a class can be completed via an online university or through a local community college. The sheer novelty of a computer screen displaying something other than Facebook or YouTube might actually garner the student’s attention toward the intended subject and result in a passing grade.

If your child claims summer-induced illiteracy, refer him to the career services department of his university. The employees there are educated, skilled, knowledgeable and—most importantly—experienced in the motivations behind an early June telephone call requesting a summer position. This late in the game, the only positions remaining will probably be volunteer-based or internships, but at least it will be resume material when real employment is required and provides some incentive for rising before 4 p.m.

The supervision of younger siblings by the older student can also be considered. It will save you childcare costs during the summer months and subconsciously influence your older child toward more responsible behavior.

Pointing out employee-related discounts at retail establishments where your child enjoys spending your money might encourage the completion of an application for employment, provided the previous source of her discretionary spending, i.e. your money, is withheld. This elementary economic lesson often requires two to five years of repeated practice before it’s fully grasped by your child.

Consider a summer camp experience for your child. Incongruously, camp directors often consider your child old enough to be a responsible leader for younger children. The promise of pay at the end of the summer adventure can also be an incentive for them to work and for you to regain some semblance of privacy.