Unstructured
days of summer often lead to boredom with hours scrolling through social media
or binge watching movies or tv series. Research shows that nearly 92% of teens spend
hours online every day. This is concerning because social media use may be
harmful to teens’ self-esteem and expose them to cyberbullying, fear of missing
out (FOMO), pressures to keep up with friends, or unrealistic expectations.
Teens may use social media to measure their self-worth,
popularity, and value. Viewing posts and photos of others may cause them to place
too much value on numbers of online friends and likes on social media instead
of building strong real-life relationships and experiences. This may lead to increased
depression, anxiety, and a false impression that others have “perfect lives” compared
to their own.
Statistics also
show that teens may decide to drink or use substances to socialize and connect
with their peers, to find comfort during periods of transition in their lives,
or to lessen emotional or psychological pain. To combat the negative influences
of social media and boredom that may lead to substance abuse, mental health
problems, and other risky behaviors this summer, let’s encourage children to find
a healthy balance with teen-friendly summer activities that promote overall
wellness, such as:
Community Involvement – Get kids involved to enrich the lives of
others and accomplish something worthwhile over break. Encourage teens to volunteer
helping elderly neighbors, walking shelter dogs, reading to nursing home residents,
organizing recycling drives, stocking food pantries, or coaching children’s sports,
day camps, or vacation Bible school. Great volunteers are welcome year-round at
InnerAct Alliance, so call us at (863) 802-0777!
Create a Business – Teens are motivated by money, but often are
not old enough to legally apply for a job. Instead of waiting until they are of
age, help them create their own business by mowing lawns, babysitting,
crafting, or using their talents in other ways. This will help them learn
valuable life skills and earn a few extra dollars over the summer months.
Join a Book Club – Keep the momentum for learning active by
encouraging summer reading. Enjoy a family book night to order pizza or share
snacks along with conversation about a book or book series. Enroll in reading
groups through local bookstores or libraries or maybe even start one in your
own neighborhood.
Take a Class – Summer is a great opportunity for children to explore new hobbies
and learn new things. Contact local libraries, state parks, community colleges,
gyms, or local professionals, such as artists, photographers, painters, or
gardeners, to inquire about class options for teens.
Spend Time Outdoors – The average person spends 90% of their
lives indoors, especially during months of weather extremes like summer or
winter. Everyone can benefit from fresh air and sunshine to improve mood,
concentration, and physical activity. Walk the dog, visit the beach, or spend
time at the park. Plan a family trip to enjoy camping, fishing, or kayaking.
Grow a Garden – Encourage your kids to develop a green thumb
by growing a vegetable garden or planting flowers in the yard. In addition to
fresh air, children will gain an understanding of where food comes from and see
results of their hard work. This may lead to healthier eating habits and create
a fun way to contribute to family meals.
Join a Gaming Group – Many comic book or gaming stores are places
to gather for group game play or tournaments for kids to build toy models,
enjoy strategic board games, trading cards, etc. What a great way to meet new
friends who enjoy similar hobbies and activities and learn from each other.
Host Friends – Create an ideal outdoor hangout at your home for teens to gather
with their friends, such as a fire pit or outdoor movie theater. This will
provide a safe place for teens to meet and opportunities for parents to get to
know their child’s friends.
As a parent, you have a major impact on your
child’s decision not to use alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs. Simple, healthy activities
like these can help guide your children to make better choices because they
will be busy, involved, and feel more confident and connected to their family,
friends, and community!
