What should we teach our children about the 4th of July now that the fireworks are over?

Not only that they have rights and freedoms in our community, but also that they have responsibilities to that same community which protects them.

They can volunteer for community service and behave in a way that shows self-respect and respect for others--foregoing gutter language, respecting property and being proud of their community. As the Bruce Springsteen song says, "It's your hometown."

Children start out self-centered and learn slowly that the world does not turn for them alone and others have rights and should be considered. In fact, the best measure of maturity may be consideration of others. The true grown-ups know how to value freedom of speech and our other freedoms. The exercise requires consideration of others in schools, homes, streets, and stores.
"Some people would trash the whole county without thinking."
"And some just talk trash."
"Maybe we should have a bumper sticker that says, "This Land is Your Land - Care for it - Be Proud of It!"

There's a bonus in taking responsibility. You feel good about yourself for doing your part. It's an especially important feeling for the young ones. Show a good example and catch your children and teens doing their part in the family and outside of it. Compliment them on their efforts to show mature responsibility when you see it.