DAR ES SALAAM, Dec. 3 -- AS schools wind down for the December and New Year break, the excitement of a long vacation can easily create blind spots for parents and guardians. Holidays should be a time of rest, renewal and family bonding, not a season of risk, misdirection, or exploitation.

This editorial calls on every parent to step up vigilance, guidance and responsibility during this extended holiday period.

First and foremost, parents must know where their children are, who they are spending time with, and what activities they are engaging in. The holiday freedom that children cherish can quickly become an open door to dangerous influences.

Idle roaming often ends in regrettable situations, especially when young people fall into the...