Most teens look forward to relaxing over the summer break, hanging out with friends, and generally being lazy. It’s something they feel they’ve earned. As a parent, you may have other ideas for your teen’s free time.
The most important things are keeping them safe and preventing them from going braindead in front of a screen.
Here are some ways to keep teens busy you may consider when planning your teen’s summer schedule.
#1. Enroll in summer classes
Attend summer school to catch up or get ahead on some units. Consider hiring a tutor to strengthen some weak academic areas. A study-buddy can be a no-cost option, as well.
Or try something fun, like a cooking class or swim lessons. Check your local Parks & Recreation Department for all kinds of learning opportunities.
#2. Increase household responsibilities
Without the pressures of the school year on your teen, now is the time to work on the areas of their education that will most help them transition into adulthood. Things like planning, preparing, and serving meals, or learning how to properly clean a bathroom are life skills your youth will need to be productive, healthy adults. Why not start this summer?
#3. Volunteering
It’s wonderful to be part of something bigger than yourself. Many organizations offer volunteering opportunities for teens, including Parks & Rec and YMCA. Smaller organizations also welcome youth volunteers. Ask your church if they need any help, or check with your local animal shelter, hospital, or elderly care facility. Teens can also simply offer their time to mow the lawn for the elderly neighbor or raise funds for a favorite cause.
#4. Get a Job
As long as your teen is old enough to get a work permit, they may want to go to work to earn money. Many businesses hire at 15 years old. Can’t find a job? Start a business! Teens can earn money mowing lawns, washing cars, walking dogs, babysitting, or doing odd jobs around town. This creates a perfect opportunity to implement some of the life skills they need to learn to be a successful adult.
#5. Pursue a hobby or skill
Summer is a great time to pursue a passion or learn something new. Arts and crafts are fantastic for keeping hands and minds busy and do wonders for one’s self-esteem. Whether it’s horseback riding, swimming, team sports, surfing, cooking, sewing, drawing, or origami, encourage your teen to participate in things that enrich life and bring a sense of accomplishment.
#6. Read!
There’s no better way to keep teens busy this summer than getting them reading, especially on those hot days. Supply your teen with a book series and let them devour at will. Do they need a little motivation? Make it a reading challenge and offer a small reward for finishing each chapter or book.
If your personal home library isn’t sufficient, visit the library. Learning to use the library is a skill your teen will carry with them for a lifetime.
#7. Start a Project
Much like finding a hobby, a project can spark creativity while teaching many essential life skills. You and your teen may want to start a garden, for example. From the planning stage to the hard work, and eventually to the reward of fresh produce or flowers, your teen will learn more than you can imagine. Your teen’s project might be building a tree house, remodeling their bedroom, making a quilt, or starting a business. Whatever you choose, it should include careful planning, diligent execution, and the celebration of every little success along the way. Don’t forget – even setbacks and “failures” are really just learning opportunities, so celebrate those too.
#8. Explore your world
Some young people haven’t had the opportunity to really experience nature in its beauty or learn about history outside of the classroom. Take day trips throughout the summer to the beach, a lake, or the mountains. Visit local attractions such as museums, gardens, historical landmarks, and other local sights.
If you are able, take a family vacation together and go somewhere where the scenery is different from where you live. Even a walk after dinner can be special when you take the time to connect with your environment and with each other.
Use Good Judgement
It’s good to find ways to keep your teen productive, but remember, just because your teen is not in school, doesn’t mean you have a live-in servant. Adding responsibilities they aren’t equipped for can create frustration, conflict, and resentment.
Have fun and use this time to connect and try new things. Play games together. Have their friends over where you can supervise and enjoy the laughter.
Remember to use prudent parenting standards when it comes to selecting appropriate activities to keep your foster teens busy this summer. Only you can decide when it’s safe to leave your teenager home alone or what you can trust them with. If you’re not sure what’s appropriate or allowed, always check with your agency social worker.
Happy Summer!
Article written by Cindy White Horvath. She can be reached at cindy@avgffa.org
