I was a single mom on a budget. I couldn't afford summer camp for my son, but I still made sure he enjoyed his time off school.

Tech Insider
Ashley Archambault and her sun in a field with sunflowers while on a hike.
Ashley Archambault found creative ways to enjoy summers with her son as a single mom on a budget.

Courtesy Ashley Archambault

I'm an American mom living in the UK. When my kids visited the US they were shocked at how 'big the food' is and how every drink is mostly ice.

Tech Insider : Travel
Mother and son enjoying meal in hotel restaurant
The author's kids were surprised at how big food in the US is.

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My son has autism and just finished high school, but he can't go to college. It's been difficult for me to accept.

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Jen lovy's son in a cap and gown and graduation
The author's son has autism and just graduated from high school.

Courtesy of Jenny Bordelove

An American mom raising teens in Paris said French parents don't check or track their kids' phones — and give them privacy for sex

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Teenagers walking and holding hands while looking at their phones.
Pamela Druckerman (not pictured) said that French parents tend to be more relaxed about teenagers having sex — as long as they take precautions.

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My parents sent me to camp for 6 weeks every summer. Years later I'm still friends with the people I met there.

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Rear view of happy kids running towards cabins at summer camp

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I sent my kids to summer camp in Spain. It was affordable and they got to experience independence.

Tech Insider : Travel
Two children on a sailboat on a mountain lake.

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I'm an American sending my kids to camp in Italy. It's cheaper and kids eat freshly cooked meals.

Tech Insider : Travel
Kids in Italy enjoying the view.

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I'm a single mom running my own business. I deal with admin at the playground.

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Nicola Prentis collaged with playground slide
Nicola Prentis is a single mom and often takes care of her company's admin at the playground.

honeyhousephotography.com; Getty Images; Chelsea Jia Feng/BI

My first cruise with my son was a nightmare. We lost power twice, had to shower with flip-flops, and couldn't make 2 of our destinations.

Tech Insider : Travel
Woman looking out a window on a cruise.

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Every year, my teen is away at camp for his birthday. We celebrate early, and I send him gifts he can open with his friends.

Tech Insider
Kids having fun on birthday party
The author's son has spent his birthday at summer camp for the last couple of years. She's learned to be OK with it.

kate_sept2004/Getty Images

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