Summer vacation can be a double-edged sword for parents of tweens and teens. While kids eagerly anticipate the freedom from school, parents may worry about how to keep them occupied and out of trouble during the long break. Unstructured time can lead to undesirable activities, such as unsupervised parties or unhealthy habits. However, there are numerous options for engaging and enriching summer activities that can benefit tweens and teens both personally and academically.
The Importance of Keeping Busy
Psychologist John Duffy's clients experienced firsthand the consequences of unoccupied tweens and teens when their children turned their home into a party central during the summer. This situation underscores the importance of finding constructive activities to keep kids occupied. Not only can these activities prevent risky behaviors, but they can also help combat weight gain and foster essential life skills.
Planning Early for Summer Activities
To ensure a productive and enjoyable summer, parents should start planning early. Teachers can be a valuable resource for suggestions on areas where their students might need extra support or have particular interests. They can recommend classes, camps, or resources that cater to these interests. Additionally, checking with school counseling offices, using personal networks, and searching online parenting websites can uncover a wealth of opportunities.
Types of Summer Activities for Tweens and Teens
1. Summer Camps
Although some tweens might think summer camps are too "childish," there are specialized programs tailored to older kids, addressing their interests and passions. These could include film-making, outdoor adventures, or even counselor positions, offering valuable work experience.
2. Wilderness Programs
Outdoor programs like NOLS or Outward Bound provide wilderness education, teaching leadership, survival skills, and a love for nature. Affordable options are available, and some even offer financial aid.
3. Museum Jobs and Internships
Museums often have internship programs for teens, allowing them to work in a field aligned with their interests, such as art, science, or history.
4. Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering not only builds job skills but also instills responsibility and fosters a sense of community. Volunteering at hospitals, libraries, or even abroad can lead to valuable experiences and personal growth.
5. Summer Classes
Summer classes in subjects like STEM, arts, or college preparatory courses can open new intellectual horizons and help teens envision their future as college students.
6. DIY Summer Jobs
Starting a small business, like babysitting, dog walking, or lawn care, can teach entrepreneurship, responsibility, and time management. Specialized skills, such as tutoring or web design, can also provide income and professional experience.
Summer Activities for Tweens and Teens
For tweens and teens who may find traditional summer activities unappealing, a wide variety of alternative options can keep them entertained and engaged:
- Exploring local attractions like food trucks, museums, or college campuses.
- Participating in sports like tennis, ping pong, or badminton.
- Trying new hobbies like photography, jewelry making, or painting.
- Attending outdoor concerts or music festivals.
- Organizing outdoor movie nights or game tournaments.
- Visiting national parks or going on hikes.
- Taking on home improvement projects or redecorating their room.
- Starting a photo-a-day project or creating a vlog.
- Joining a chess club or participating in an escape room.
- Learning a musical instrument or coding.
By providing a diverse array of activities, parents can help tweens and teens avoid the summer slump and foster their personal growth, responsibility, and enjoyment. These experiences will not only keep them busy but also contribute to their development as confident and well-rounded individuals.
