Sending your children back to school is no easy task - but it can be the easy part for working parents. Here are some ideas on how to supervise your kids during non-school hours:

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 11-and 12-year olds) should not come home to an empty house in the afternoon unless they show unusual maturity for their age.

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?

If you choose a commercial after-school program, inquire about the training of the staff. There should be a high staff-to-child ratio, and the rooms and the playground should be safe.

Article Source: American Academy of Pediatrics (http://www.aap.org)