Description: Does not talk much, reclusive.

Remedy: Get them involved in a summer camp, whether it's through your church or the classified ads. This is sure to build your children's socialising skills. They will most likely do multiple activities each day, where they will have to express themselves and interact with others. The true challenge is for them to acclimatise themselves to an environment they are not accustomed to, that is filled with new faces.

Description: Always asking for money to go partying or shopping.

Remedy: With the advent of cable television and the Internet, teens' needs and wants are increasing by the day. Maybe it's a shoe they saw Beyoncé wearing, or it's the new Jordan 23 sneakers. The bottom line is, the product costs money and they want to buy it. The solution to that is simple - get them a summer job! This will teach them how to budget and get a glimpse of what life after school feels like.

If it's too late for a summer job, then have them work for their allowance. Create a roster of things that you expect them to do, and a pay scheme that is associated with the duties. Whatever the case may be, don't give your teens the impression that they can receive money without working for it.

Description: Comes home with a report filled with Ds.

Remedy: If your teens are going into fourth or fifth form and they are academically underachieving, there is no better time than the summer to address these issues. Have them enrol in a summer class, one that is reputable and provides a report to inform you of your children's progress. Initially, it might be a burden for them, especially when they see their friends idling all day. Nonetheless, CSEC examinations are nothing to joke about, it's their first series of exams that will be used to guide them to a stable future.

Description: Maintains a healthy balance between school, home and friends.

Remedy: The reward for teens who have been focused and productive throughout the academic year is freedom. Yup, this is what they have been working hard for, a time to relax and recreate. If they choose to work, then kudos to you. This means you have children who are academically focused, responsible and ambitious.

Perhaps, you could also use this time for bonding. Go visit some of Jamaica's favourite attractions, watch a movie, do whatever makes you guys happy. The senior parents will tell you that you won't have this opportunity much longer. Soon, they will become adults and extremely preoccupied with establishing a career and developing their personal lives.