Teenagers! Whether you have them at home, or whether you’re the cool aunt or uncle that comes to visit often, we’ve put together a list of things to do that’s healthy, fun and supportive of their overall wellbeing.
During adolescence, teenagers go through a period of transition where they develop their own identities and seek more independence. Sometimes their behaviour during this time can come across as them pushing you away or being uninterested in spending time with you, however, research has shown that the opposite is true. During adolescence, it’s important for teenagers to spend time with their parents as it promotes their emotional and social development.
That’s why even if you’re currently experiencing the behaviour as mentioned above, we encourage you to continue to connect with them in positive ways. Let’s explore some great ideas that both you and your teen will enjoy:
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Play board games or card games
Some friendly competition is sure to get the fun going! This can be a great way to spend quality time together. Why not make it a family thing? You can even pair it with points 3 and 4 below to make it a well-rounded night of fun.
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Sports
There’s nothing like sitting in a stadium, watching your favourite sports game live with the crowd going wild when your team scores a goal. Even watching a game together on TV can be a fun way to bond over your shared interest in sports.
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Get creative!
Engaging in creative activities such as painting, drawing, writing or playing music can be a great form of entertainment. It allows for free expression, and develops your artistic skills at the same time.
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Cooking, braaiing or baking together
This is a fun way for you to bond over your shared love of food. We all know that braaiing the perfect piece of meat is a skill that every South African needs to know! You could try making a favourite family recipe or experimenting with new dishes.
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Outdoor activities
Going for a hike, bike ride, or playing a game of frisbee can be a fun way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors together. It’s a healthy way to stay active and have fun and helps to develop physical strength, coordination and teamwork skills. Regular physical activity can also reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes.
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Movies, Series or Live Performances
Choose a favourite TV show or movie series and binge-watch it together over a weekend. Attending live performances such as concerts, theatre performances or comedy shows can also be a great way for teenagers to have fun and socialise with their peers.
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Travel
A weekend getaway or plan to take a family trip together. This can be a fun way to explore new places, try new things, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
In conclusion, by spending time together in a positive and enjoyable way, parents can help strengthen their relationship with their teenager and provide the support and guidance that their teenager needs during this important stage of development.