Summer break – a time for relaxation, adventure, and maybe a little bit of “Ugh, I’m bored!” from both you (the teenager) and your parents. But fear not! This summer doesn’t have to be a battleground between screen time and “quality family time.” Here’s a list of exciting activities that teenagers and parents can enjoy together, creating lasting memories and strengthening that sometimes-strained bond.:
Embrace the Great Outdoors
Camping
Reconnect with nature on a family camping trip! Pitch a tent under a blanket of stars, tell stories around a crackling bonfire, and explore nearby trails. National parks and campsites offer affordable options, and the memories you create will be priceless.
Water Adventures
Beat the summer heat with a kayaking or canoeing trip down a scenic river. Feeling more adventurous? Try whitewater rafting for a thrilling family experience. If relaxation is your vibe, pack a picnic basket and head to the beach for a day of sun, sand, and swimming.
Explore Together
Hiking
Hiking may seem like an obvious one, but going on a family hike, or one with just you and your teenager is a great way to explore a new area together. Hiking allows you to carry on a conversation when you want to, or to create a little bit of space on the trail at times, too. Everyone can go at their own pace, stop together at various points for snacks, and just enjoy the time.
Cycling
If you can’t take your bikes, then be sure to check out where you can rent them from near your summer destination. Cycling is a great way to check out the area without having to walk or hike all day and is another great summer activity for teenagers who enjoy the outdoors. If you guys are serious about your biking, then you might already have bike racks for the car or an SUV where the bikes can fit in the back. Otherwise, renting a bike might be an easier option compared to bringing your own.
Fishing
Head to a local fishing spot and teach your teen the art of fishing. Learning a new skill such as fishing is a great summer activity for teenagers and it’s a potentially useful life-skill in general. It’s unlikely your teenager will be in a survival situation where they need to catch fish to survive and they just so happen to have a rod and a reel, but it’s still a fun pastime and a good thing to know how to do. It’s a rewarding activity that combines patience with the potential for a delicious reward!
Get Active
Family Olympics
Challenge yourselves with some homemade sports activities! Get creative and set up your own games with soccer balls, tennis balls, or whatever you have on hand. Even without a full game, kicking around a ball or playing catch can be a fun way to bond.
Frisbee Fun
Grab a frisbee for a fun game with your teen, or involve the whole family! It’s a simple activity that’s easy to learn and a great way to meet new people while on vacation.
Water Balloon Wars
Unleash some playful chaos with a water balloon fight! Opt for biodegradable balloons to minimize environmental impact. For a larger group, try water balloon volleyball – just find something to use as a net! Remember to clean up any broken balloons for the safety of wildlife.
Beyond the Outdoors
Card Games
Dust off those board games or card games for a night of friendly family competition. You can even try video game tournaments for a tech-savvy twist on this classic activity.
Remember:
Involve Everyone in the Planning
Planning activities together ensures everyone feels included and excited. Let each family member suggest ideas and create a balanced schedule that caters to different interests.
Be Flexible
Things don’t always go according to plan. Be open to last-minute changes and embrace the unexpected moments that can turn into cherished memories.
Focus on Quality Time
Put away the phones and tablets when you’re together. Focus on truly connecting with your parents through conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.
Bonus Tip
Don’t underestimate the power of simply hanging out. Movie nights, board game marathons, or just chatting on the porch can be just as valuable as elaborate outings.
This summer, break away from the routine and create lasting memories as a family. With a little creativity and a willingness to explore, you can turn those “Ugh, I’m bored” groans into happy sighs of contentment. So, put down your screens, step outside, and start planning your summer adventures together!
