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Summer break is a blast for kids, but for parents it means striking a delicate balance between caution and overprotection.

That balance is particularly important when your curious and independent youngster asks to do things that have serious safety considerations. A parent will generally know what their child is ready for, based on physical abilities and maturity level. But here are some simple-to-follow tips on how to respond when your precious little one looks at you with that near-impossible-to-resist expression and asks, "Can I . . . ?"

Can I help in the garden?

You want to keep younger children away from any toxic chemicals or power equipment you might use in the garden. If you feel your child is responsible enough to dig in the dirt with you, follow these simple tips:

• Make sure the child has tools scaled to his hands.
• Be sure he uses gloves to protect against scrapes and cuts.
• Only older kids get to use clippers, and then under adult supervision.
• Use sunscreen and wear hats to prevent sunburn.

If you have a young child who really wants to help you garden but you'd rather they stay out of your big plot, let them:

• Create a windowsill or porch garden with small pots, potting soil and herb seeds. (They can use the herbs they grow to create that "special" blend to season food for the grill.)
• Have a small, designated spot in your garden where they can grow a flower or their favorite vegetable.

Can I please help you grill?

Most child-safety experts suggest that kids shouldn't get near the grill until they are at least 10. But if you allow your junior chef to help with the burger flipping, remember these rules:

• No matter if the grill is gas or charcoal, a parent lights it.
• No adding fuel once the charcoal is lit.
• Make sure the grill is at least 10 feet from the house or any yard structures.
• Know where the squirt bottle of water and fire extinguisher are and how and when to use them.
• Keep the littler kids away from the grill.

So what to do with kids you don't want anywhere near the hot grill? Offer to let them:

• Season meat and veggies. They can even create their own "special" blend of herbs and spices.
• Make a salad or dessert.
• Count and separate buns.
• Watch the grilling from a safe distance. You can teach them safe grilling tips and then quiz them over dinner.

Can I use your tools?

Simple projects involving paint, lightweight hammers and cordless drills or screwdrivers are suitable for most kids 7 and up. When they hit teenage status, they can take on projects requiring power tools or hazardous materials. Be sure to follow these guidelines:

• Always wear appropriate gear, including eye and ear protection.
• Be sure your child is strong enough to control the tool.
• Choose only brush-applied, water-based, low-VOC paints and finishes.
• Read tool manuals and follow all safety instructions.

To keep your littlest DIYers safely occupied, let them:

• Help with measuring.
• Experiment with a stud finder. (They will feel they are working with a "power tool.")
• Serve as project supervisor and "inspect" your work when it's done.
• Play with a kid's woodworking kit, available at most home-improvement stores.

Can I mow the lawn?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a minimum age of 12 for a walk-behind power mower and 16 for a riding mower. Even if you feel your child is old enough to mow, safety always comes first. More than 16,000 children suffer lawn-mower-related injuries every year. Here are key rules to follow if you opt to let a child help with the mowing:

• Hearing and eye protection are mandatory.
• Proper footwear must be worn. This means no flip-flops.
• Stow all tools and fuels properly as soon as the job is finished.
• Never rush the job.
• No cell phones or other potential distractions allowed.

If you're not yet ready to hand mowing duties over to your son or daughter, offer them these alternatives:

• Clear the yard of toys, sticks, rocks and other potential projectiles.
• Get Mom or Dad their hearing and eye protection gear.
• Sweep clippings off driveways and sidewalks and back into the yard for a natural fertilizer.