There’s Still Plenty of Summer Left to Enjoy!

 

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!