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Summer break presents tweens and teens with a valuable opportunity to explore, learn, and grow outside of the traditional classroom setting. By engaging in activities such as volunteering, internships, travel, creative pursuits, sports, and summer classes, teens can make the most out of their summer vacation while gaining valuable experience and skills that will serve them well in the future.
Here are six suggestions for tweens and teens that will fill their summer days with meaningful activities.
VOLUNTEER WORK
Encouraging tweens and teens to volunteer their time for a cause they’re passionate about is not only a fulfilling experience but also helps them develop empathy and social responsibility. Whether it’s volunteering at a local animal shelter, helping out at a community garden, or participating in environmental clean-up initiatives, giving back to the community instills important values while providing hands-on experience and exposure to different perspectives.
CREATIVE PURSUITS
Summer break is the perfect time for tweens and teens to explore their creative interests and talents. Whether it’s writing, painting, photography, music, or theater, engaging in creative pursuits not only nurtures self-expression but also fosters problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and innovation. Encourage your teen to enroll in workshops, join local clubs or online communities, or simply dedicate time each day to pursue their creative passions.
SPORTS AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Staying active and spending time outdoors is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Encourage your teen to participate in sports leagues, outdoor adventures, or recreational activities like hiking, biking, swimming, or rock climbing. Not only do these activities promote physical fitness and teamwork, but they also instill important life skills such as discipline, perseverance, and resilience.
SUMMER CLASSES OR WORKSHOPS
Many schools, community centers, and organizations offer summer classes or workshops covering a wide range of topics, from academic subjects to practical skills and hobbies. Whether it’s learning a new language, mastering coding skills, or exploring culinary arts, these classes provide teens with opportunities for personal and intellectual growth, as well as the chance to meet new friends with similar interests.
COUNSELOR IN TRAINING PROGRAMS
For young teens who are too young to stay home alone but too old for regular camp, a counselor-in-training program may be the perfect solution. The programs are usually offered at a discount from the full camp pricing. Participants help counselors with various activities both hands-on with the children and behind the scenes. It’s excellent experience and may help your tween get a job at a camp once they are old enough for employment.
Encourage your teen to step out of their comfort zone, embrace new challenges, and seize the opportunity to make this summer one they’ll never forget.