Our annual winter break is nearly upon us, a time when parents and guardians may wonder how to keep their teens busy and productive without school for two weeks beginning December 16th?  A few tips to consider include:

1. Creating a list of ‘things to do’ to provide your teen an opportunity to earn spending money.  Such work can occupy their time and help you feel better about handing over the cash.
2. Look for opportunities for your teen to volunteer in the community.  Most of the year we are simply too busy to offer ourselves to community service.  You do not have to go far to find an opportunity to ‘give back’ to the Juneau community.
3. Get organized.  Bedrooms, laundry rooms, study areas, the garage, closets, book bags, cars, you get the idea.
4. Develop a two-week calendar to assist in prioritizing time.  Schedule a family outing, game night or movie night.   Clearly highlight ‘family time’ and designate other time as appropriate.
5. Reach out to family and friends.  Write a letter, send an e-mail or make a phone call to someone you have been thinking about.
6. Finally, log into PowerSchool and check on grades and attendance as you gear up to come back to school on January 3^rd, inspired to smartly finish first semester.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish each and every Falcon a peaceful and fulfilling winter break.  See you next year!

Very truly,

Dan Larson