However, educators have noticed at least four things parents can do to minimize the possibility of children getting into trouble:

1. Know where your teen is and who he is with. The need to be accepted by their peers can lead adolescents to do things their parents wouldn’t believe possible. Incidents of misbehavior are less likely when parents know their children’s friends.

2. Make your home inviting to your teen’s friends. You can monitor their activities. Plus you and your teen can see if the friends fit in with your family’s lifestyle and values.

3. Limit unsupervised time. Check with your child’s school to find out what alternatives may be available to letting your child be at home alone regularly.

4. Encourage participation in extracurricular activities offered after school. They will help your teen feel more a part of the school—and they will keep her out of activities you’d rather she avoid.

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