Making Summer Count: Activities for Teens, Parents, and Guardians to Recharge and Reconnect
Summer break isn’t just a pause from school—it's a valuable opportunity to reset, reflect, and reconnect. Whether you're a teen trying to make the most of your time off, or a parent or guardian looking to support your teen’s growth and well-being, this season offers plenty of ways to create positive moments together. Here are some ideas for making summer meaningful for both teens and the adults who support them.
For Teens: Time to Recharge and Explore
1. Try Something New
Take a dance class, join a local art group, or learn a new skill online. Summer is a great time to step out of your comfort zone—without the pressure of grades or deadlines.
2. Focus on Mental Health
Use this break to build healthier habits: better sleep, daily movement, journaling, or quiet time. Take time to reflect on what you want to leave behind—and what you want to grow into.
3. Volunteer in Your Community
Give back by supporting a cause you care about. Whether it’s helping at a food pantry or joining a youth leadership group, you’ll gain confidence and purpose.
4. Create a Personal Project
Write a short story, start a YouTube channel, build a vision board—whatever lights you up. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be yours.
5. Make Room for Fun
Go to the beach, plan a movie night with friends, or simply spend time outdoors. Fun is a part of mental wellness too.
For Parents & Guardians: Support with Intention
1. Encourage Unstructured Time
It’s okay for teens to be “bored” sometimes. That space often leads to creativity, rest, or the chance to listen to their own thoughts.
2. Build Meaningful Routines
Start a weekly family check-in, schedule regular meals together, or plan a shared summer activity like biking or hiking. Routine can offer calm during this unstructured season.
3. Ask Open-Ended Questions
Instead of “What did you do today?” try “What was something that made you feel proud this week?” or “What do you want this summer to feel like?”
4. Create Opportunities for Connection
If possible, plan small outings or intentional moments of one-on-one time. You don’t need to spend a lot to show you care.
5. Model Healthy Boundaries
Show your teen that taking time to rest, say “no,” and recharge is not just allowed—it’s necessary.
Shared Experiences That Strengthen Bonds
Here are a few ideas both teens and adults can do together:
Start a joint book or movie club at home
Create a summer photo journal or scrapbook
Volunteer as a family
Cook a new recipe together each week
Have a technology-free day and see where the time goes
Final Thought
Summer doesn’t have to be packed with activities to be meaningful. Sometimes, the best memories come from slow mornings, unexpected conversations, and simple moments of being together.
At ONETEEN, we believe summer can be a time of healing, discovery, and growth—for every member of the family.
Let this be a season where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to recharge in their own way.