As children grow older, before and after-school child care can become a concern, especially for working parents. Another issue can arise as homework demands increase on teens and older adolescents, and the issue of developing good study habits for those home alone after school can arise. 

To help parents address these concerns, the American Academy of Pediatrics offers these guidelines. 
In regards to before and after school child care, most parents understand that during early and middle childhood, young­sters need supervision. A responsible adult should be available to get them ready and off to school in the morning and super­vise them after school until parents return home from work. 
If a family member will care for your child, communicate the need to follow consistent rules set by the parent regarding discipline and homework. 

Children approaching adolescence, 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 alternate 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.  If you choose a commercial after-school program, inquire about the training of the staff. There should be a high staff-to-child ratio, trained persons to address health issues and emergencies, and the rooms and the playground should be safe. 

For teens, developing good homework and study habits are important.  Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework starting at a young age.

Children need a consistent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, without distrac­tions, and promotes study. 
Schedule ample time for homework; build this time into choices about partici­pation in after school activities. 
Establish a household rule that the TV and other electronic distractions stay off during homework time. 

Supervise computer and Internet use. 
By high school, it’s not uncommon for teachers to ask students to submit home­work electronically and perform other tasks on a computer. If your child doesn’t have access to a computer or the Internet at home, work with teachers and school administration to develop appropriate accommodations. 

Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do a child’s homework for him or her. 
Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying. It may be helpful to close the books for a few minutes, stretch, and take a break periodically when it will not be too disruptive. 

If your child is struggling with a particular subject, speak with your child’s teacher for recommendations on how you or another person can help your child at home or at school. . If you have concerns about the assignments your child is receiving, talk with their teacher. 
If your child is having difficulty focusing on or completing homework, discuss this with your child’s teacher, school coun­selor, or health care provider. 

For general homework problems that cannot be worked out with the teacher, a tutor may be considered. 
Some children need help organizing their homework. Checklists, timers, and parental supervision can help overcome homework problems. 
Some children may need help remem­bering their assignments. Work with your child and their teacher to develop an appropriate way to keep track of their assignments — such as an assignment notebook. 
Establish a good sleep routine. Insufficient sleep is associated with lower academic achievement in middle school, high school and college, as well as higher rates of absenteeism and tardiness. The optimal amount of sleep for most adoles­cents 13 to 18 years old is in the range of eight to 10 hours per night.