SUMMER signals the start of the long school holidays and the annual division of those with children and those without.

Those with children of school age have to find ways to occupy them for the six weeks or so they are out of class. And those without them have to learn to curb a natural criticism of having more children visibly around and learn patience.

OK – that’s a very simplistic look at the subject but perhaps the way to survive this seasonal situation takes effort on both sides.

Pity the poor parents who have to find ways to balance a working life with parental duties without the natural structure and activities of school life.

This is fine if they have affordable childcare in place or have been able to book youngsters onto one of the many sport and activity courses available. Otherwise, life tends to lurch from one drama to the next crisis.

Truculent teens are another matter and trying to keep them occupied can take a degree in psychology and the inventiveness of Head of Entertainment on a cruise ship. Unfortunately, many teens just wander through the school break either getting into trouble, just avoiding it or putting themselves at risk.

Police, fire, transport and local authorities in Greater Manchester are determined to tackle a possible increase in anti-social behaviour during this time by coming up with a programme of activities to help banish boredom. They offer advice around keeping young people safe and showing respect for others.

There is really no reason why young people should not have the chance to unwind and enjoy the break without upsetting neighbours or the local community.

Many enjoy themselves with friends harmlessly, get involved in local projects or enjoy their sport and other activities. Parents keep an eye on what they’re doing but give them the space they often need to prove they can be responsible and make good choices.

Communication with parents is definitely the key here but it’s a tricky age-group and sometimes just getting youngsters to talk to parents is difficult.

It’s very easy for the rest of us, either without children or with children now grown up, to be overly critical of the children and young people who are out and about more in the community over the Summer months.

By making some allowances for each other, though, we can all hopefully enjoy the better weather together.