Let’s Get Creative! How to Spark Your Teens Creative Side.

While the summertime can burst with days of full-filled activities, most of the time is probably downtime for your teenager. This isn’t bad; after all, time for rest and recovery is imperative. However, too many days of quiet time can lead to boredom for kids of all ages and can lead to more screen time than we’d like to admit. That’s where a list of creative ideas for your kids to release some pent-up energy can be helpful!

Today, let’s discuss some ways you can get your teen to be creative, indoors and out. You’ll notice that not only are they being productive, but their mood can improve, and their confidence can soar!

Creative Activities for Your Teen

Depending on the weather and your family plans, you can intersperse these activities into your daily routine as you see fit. First, think about what would suit your child the best and what they would enjoy. After that, have fun – you might also find that you’re motivated and encouraged!

Cook a Meal Together

Let’s face it, teenagers can put away some groceries. This is especially true if mom and dad are gone during the day and your child needs to eat something other than packaged and processed snacks.

However, being in the kitchen fixing fresh meals daily can be overwhelming. That’s where enlisting the help of your teen can be helpful. Find a recipe that you all can enjoy eating together, and then head to the grocery store. Once you have all the ingredients on hand, let your teen step into the kitchen and learn how to cook or bake something new.

Not only will this increase their confidence, but it will teach them some skills that will last for a lifetime.

Talk a walk

Probably not often thought of as a creative outlet, taking a walk outside is immensely helpful for teens (and really, anyone). Leave the iPhones and AirPods at home, and chat with your child as you hike a new trail or walk through a nearby forest. What do they see? What do they smell?

See if they can focus on the beauty around them when they step outdoors. Not only will you get some fresh air, but you can also get your steps in for the day – all while spending one-on-one time with your child!

Set up a creative corner

This doesn’t have to be a huge space in your home but can be welcoming for a teen looking for a way to explore a bit. Set out some paper, colored pencils, paint, modeling clay, and even a Polaroid camera, and see what your child comes up with. Step back and give them free rein to design and create however they see fit; you might find they are funneling a lot of energy and creativity into the pieces they make!

While this is only a short list of the many creative ideas you can do with your children, remember that you don’t want to force it. Other activities like yoga, visiting museums, going to concerts, starting a summer job, or even reading books can all be creative outlets for young adults that can motivate and encourage them throughout the summer.

Try a new hobby

If you live near the water and have never parasailed, maybe now is the time to try! Or do you live in the mountains and have never been 4-wheeling? These activities are fantastic for sparking inspiration and can be an excellent outlet for spending quality time with your teen.

See what local adventures are available in your area, and sign up for a fun day with your child!

While this is only a short list of the many creative ideas you can do with your children, remember that you don’t want to force it. Other activities like yoga, visiting museums, going to concerts, starting a summer job, or even reading books can all be creative outlets for young adults that can motivate and encourage them throughout the summer.