5．
阅读理解
Nowadays
lots of kids are at home alone after school. Are you one of them? Kids who
regularly take care of themselves are called "latchkey kids".
This
nickname got its start in the 1940s. Many men fought in the Second World War
and women had to take jobs in factories to keep the country going. With both
parents away, lots of kids went back to empty houses after school. Latchkey
kids wore house keys around their necks and they used the keys to open doors.
Today,
it's common for both parents to work. As a result, a new generation of kids are
spending some time alone after school. It becomes necessary for both parents
and kids to make some rules. There are a lot of questions to talk about:
Should
you call your mum, or dad as soon as you get home?
Should
you do your homework first?
Can
you watch TV or play computer games? If so, how long?
What
can you eat if you want a snack?
Can
friends come over? If so, how many?
……
As
latchkey kids, knowing how to stay safe is just as important as following the
family rules. Talk about the following questions with your parents:
What
should you do when the phone rings?
What
should you do if someone knocks at the door?
What
should you do if someone breaks into the house?
What
should you do if you cut yourself while cooking?
……
You
may feel when
you are at home alone. Don't worry. Keeping yourself busy is helpful. There are
many things which can make you feel that time goes by quickly:
●Read a magazine. ●Write an email. ●Phone a friend.
