2.All teenagers are different. But many like to spend their free time doing things like shopping, going to parties, being with friends, using technology for games or other online activities, social networking, texting, watching movies, reading and going to the beach or park.
Teenagers are also spending an increasing amount of their free time in structured extracurricular activities such as arts and sports. And they often feel bored with unstructured spare time.
Free time with parents and family
One of the joys of the teenage years is discovering the things you have in common with your teenager, or new things your child might open your eyes to. Spending free time together is a great way to stay connected with your teenage child.
Finding the balance between showing an interest in your child’s activities and being ‘in his face’ can be tricky. Our articles on supporting your teenager’s independence and privacy, monitoring and trust in the teenage years have practical tips.
Activities with you
Doing something one-on-one with one or both parents can be a treat for your child, especially in larger families. An occasional movie together, or even a quick meal or a drink in a café after another activity, can feel a bit special.
These activities might not happen spontaneously. You might need to discuss ideas with your child and plan to spend some time together.
Other mums and dads suggest the following activities for sharing free time with your child:
- seeing a movie you’re both interested in
- listening to music together at home or going to a concert
- going to a football game or other sports match
- checking out local events such as markets, festivals or environmental activities
- going away for a weekend to an event, such as a show or an exhibition
- cooking together
- going out for a meal together
- working on a home project together – for example, redecorating a room or making furniture.
If spending free time with you is a new thing, your child might take a bit of persuading before she’s keen. If this is an issue, you could consider inviting one or two of your child’s friends along as well.
If you spend time together often enough, your child will probably build up more enthusiasm, so keep trying. You might need to try a range of activities before you find one you both like.
Shopping! My daughter and I just love shopping. Then we stop for a coffee or juice and just talk. It can feel so strange doing that with my daughter, but I love it.
Activities for the whole family
If you’ve got teenagers and younger children, a family meeting can get everyone brainstorming activities to enjoy as a family. You could make a couple of lists – activities to do together, and activities that only some of you will do.Some activities the whole family could do might include:
- watching a family-friendly DVD – you could check out our movie reviews for ideas
- having a picnic
- playing a favourite game or activity at a local park, such as soccer or throwing a frisbee
- planning a special meal with everyone suggesting a dish
- planning a holiday
- going for a bushwalk
- going for a bike ride
- walking the dog.