Mom's Talk Q&A: Summer Plans for the Kids

School is ending on June 3, so Benicia kids will soon become free-range. While the kids are thrilled, parents are left with the conundrum of what to do with them over the summer.

If both parents work, there is the added challenge of day care. While it's tempting to let them watch TV and play video games all day, we all know that it turns their growing brains into jelly.

So what's a parent to do? It would be nice to find something constructive for them to do, like have them build a redwood deck in the backyard or clean out the garage. Most parents would be happy if they just cleaned their rooms.

Okay, back to reality. There are summer programs, day camps, overnight camps, art classes, sports and swimming lessons. If you have willing family, you could send the kids to visit aunts, uncles or grandparents. Parents can also team up with other families to arrange play dates.

The Benicia Parks and Community Services Department offers classes and camps for children of nearly every age.  The Summer 2011 catalogue is available at City Hall or the Benicia Public Library.  You can register for classes in person, by mail or on-line.