8 Activities to Keep Your Kids Occupied During Summer Vacation (Besides the Summer Job)

Last Updated: Monday May 8, 2023

In June, teens are amped for summer vacation. But as the school-free weeks go on and on, boredom usually sets in.

And that’s where problems could start. According to reports, summer break is when a lot of teens take drugs for the first time. Here are some activities to keep your young loved ones engaged to, hopefully, have a drug-free summer vacation.

Be a Boss

Does your teen have a money on their mind? This summer, due to social distancing guidelines, there aren't as many typical summer jobs (like in malls, fast food or amusement parks) available.

But with a little hustle and creativity a young entrepreneur can thrive. From outdoor lawn care to online tutoring to virtual party planning, there are a few ways young people can make money while being their own boss.

Check out this article for more ideas.

Go Outside and Get Moving

Going for regular runs, organizing pick-up basketball or football games, playing soccer with family – all of these are great, healthy activities for your teen to do during the summer. It’s also a cure for “in-the-house-all-day blues.”

Get Artsy

Is your teen more on the creative side? If so, beading, painting, scrapbooking, origami, and similar activities can be great ways to occupy his or her time during the long summer days.

Exploring Roots

Having a virtual family reunion this summer? You may want to get your teen interested in creating an elaborate family tree. In addition to the names and photos of extended family members, they can also include short stories or quotes that they would get from each person. Not only is this a really good opportunity for your teen to get to know their aunts, uncle and cousins, it also gives them a lasting document they can look back on for the rest of their lives and pass on to their children.

Take Pretty Pictures

Whether using that pricey camera you got them for Christmas, or a smartphone, photography can be an awesome summer hobby for your teen. Trips to the beach, or just the backyard can serve as inspiration as they set out to document their summer. They may also want to set up new social media accounts to show off their growing photography and video skills.

Learn a New Language

Hablas español? Parlez-vous Français? Summer break is a wonderful opportunity to learn a new language. Whether going the structured route (by using online language programs) or watching tv or YouTube shows in different languages, these experiences expose your teen to new cultures, and lead to a long-lasting impact.

Serve the Community

Does your teen have an interest in animals, parks or the arts? They may be able to find volunteer opportunities linked to their interests for the summer. VolunteerMatch.org is a good website to check out to find opportunities in your community.

Become an In-Home Chef

Does your teen like to eat? Find a cookbook or website that has many of your teen’s favorite dishes, go grocery shopping once a week, then leave the cooking to them. Not only would this cut down on complaints about your cooking, they are also using a little bit of creativity when creating their dishes and probably even setting the table.

The key to finding summer activities for your teen is to follow where his or her interests are. If they can find hobbies or activities that they really enjoy, they will be less likely to be tempted by drugs.