Summer is one of the most relaxed and stress-free seasons for a majority of people.
However, for many teens, it can feel like a challenge to be productive and entertained at the same time.
With so much time to fill, summer break can feel like one of the scariest things facing your teen as they have nothing to do but sit around and wonder what to do with all their free time.
For some, this can lead teens to find themselves in bad situations. It can result in negative consequences that can affect the rest of their lives.
Here are some ways you can keep your teen busy this summer:
Try a Summer Camp
Summer camp is a great way to keep a teen busy while they’re on summer break. There are a wide variety of summer camp options including arts and crafts-based camps, sports camps, and many more. Summer camps are a great way to keep your teen busy while allowing them to explore their interests and meet new people.
A rowing summer camp, for instance, may teach teens a new sport while also providing them with life skills. Through a camp like this, a teen may gain connections, skills, and new hobbies that will open doors down the road.
Explore Different Ideas Together
Summer is the perfect time to introduce your teen to something new. Find out what kinds of activities your teen enjoys or what subjects your teen is curious about. There are many possible options, including sports, programming, or art classes.
If they are interested in learning more about a specific subject, consider scheduling an appointment with a local community college or university. There are a variety of summer courses and programs that cater to a range of interests.
You may be surprised at how much your teen wants to do – they just need a little push or encouragement.
Find Time for the Outdoors
This is one of the most important things that can be done to keep a teen busy next summer. To make the most of outdoor time, get your teen interested in hiking or other outdoor activities, like camping, canoeing, or fishing.
One of the nice parts of being outdoors is that it doesn’t require a ton of forced entertainment or money. Even something as simple as sitting around a campfire, playing catch, or throwing a fishing line in the water can entertain anyone for hours on end.
Go on Vacation
This may sound like a cliché, but vacation is the perfect way to keep your teen busy. While traveling can be a lot of fun, it can also be an ideal way to keep a teen busy away from their typical schedule.
If you have not booked a vacation, choose one that involves activities your teen will enjoy.
Against popular belief, vacation does not have to be an extremely expensive process. In fact, many teens have said that some of their favorite vacations have been going on road trips, visiting extended family, or just camping for a long time.
Find Quality Time in the Little Things
There are times when less is more. There is no need to fill a teenager’s summer with such an active and hectic schedule that they are unable to relax and enjoy it. Your relationship with your teen can often be made special by the little moments.
Maybe it’s having family dinner every night or watching a movie every week.
Whatever it is, being intentional and making the most of the little things will help your teen have a great summer, stay out of trouble, and gain a stronger relationship with you.