Summer break is a time of freedom and fun for teens and tweens, but it can also be a challenge for parents to keep their kids entertained and engaged. As busy moms, you want your children to have a memorable and enriching summer without breaking the bank. Whether your teens and tweens enjoy being outdoors, getting crafty, or spending time with family and friends, there are plenty of activities to keep them occupied and happy.
If you’re a mum looking to inspire your kids to peel away from their screens and dive into the vibrant world outside (or bring some of that sparkle indoors), you’re in the right place.
In this blog post, I’ve compiled 19 exciting and diverse ideas to help your tween and teen kids avoid boredom and make the most of their summer break. From budget-friendly crafts and DIY projects to adventurous outdoor activities, there’s something here for everyone.
Remember, it’s not about filling every minute with action but about creating enjoyable, memorable and meaningful moments!
Read on to discover these fun-filled suggestions and ensure your growing kids have a summer to remember!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that I get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.
Outdoor summer fun for teens and tweens
01. Go skateboarding
Learn how to skateboard or go demo their skills at the local park. Many towns have a dedicated skateboard park where the kids can hang out and enjoy the sunshine for hours.
02. Enjoy a nature Walk
Whether with family or friends (or both!), pack some water bottles and snacks and go discover new places! As I often say to my own 3 kids, “go outside in the big wide world!” (which, I will confess, is often followed by teenage eye-rolling 🙈)
03. Camp in the backyard
If your children are not yet old enough to go camping alone with friends, then why not try setting up a campground in your yard? Set up one (or more) tents, a safe place for a campfire, a few chairs or blankets to sit on and snacks. Of course, don’t forget marshmallows to roast over the fire!
04. Throw a pool party
Throw a pool party to help cool down on hot summer days! Fun additions are water pistols, water bombs (AKA water balloons) and a selection of juices poolside for the kids to mix their own alcohol-free mocktails.
05. Photo scavenger hunt
Most teens (and many tweens) have their own mobile phones these days, so having a phone ready in the pocket and taking photos is easy. Why not encourage them to do a scavenger hunt around the neighbourhood, photographing items from a list you have prepared beforehand?
Creative things for teens and tweens to do this summer
06. Rock art
Have you ever found cute, hand-painted pebbles hidden around town? There has been a growing trend in this hobby, not only in the painting and the hiding but also knowing the joy that discovering such colourful rocks can bring. With (preferably) waterproof paint, some smooth pebbles and a bit of imagination, your kids can paint several stones and place them around town to spread the joy to others!
07. Press flowers
Winter is not the time for doing this… but these warmer months are perfect! There are a multitude of flower pressing kits available to buy (like this one), but a heavy book and some paper can also give a lovely result for kids who’d like to experiment with pressing and saving flowers. (P.S. pressed flowers can be framed, added to greeting cards, included on a DIY bookmark and more!)
08. Paint a mural
Graffiti doesn’t have always have to involve a visit from the police. Many towns offer holiday workshops which often include mural painting or even graffiti graphics. Some towns even set aside special areas where graffiti artwork is permitted and encouraged. Perfect for the budding artist!
09. DIY jewellery
There are so many materials that can be used by kids to create their own jewellery masterpieces. Whether braided with wool, threaded with beads or tied with nautical rope, teens and tweens (and not just the girls!) can spice up their usual accessories or make jewellery gifts for friends.
10. Tie-dye clothing
The art of tie-dying didn’t die out in the ‘60s. Tie-dyed shirts remain extremely popular, and are even cooler when personally created! All that’s needed is a white shirt, a pile of elastic bands, fabric dye, rubber gloves and imagination. There are loads of tie-dye techniques online to discover, like this.
11. Creative writing
Creative writing doesn’t have to mean teenage dramas and “dear diary” (although it can!). For kids who have a million ideas to express, encouraging them to write is the perfect indoors, “I just wanna be alone” activity. Whether it’s writing poetry, an article for the school or local newspaper, sketching out their own graphic novel or starting a blog, the sky’s the limit when it comes to ideas.
12. Start a new creative hobby
Long summer holidays provide ample time to learn and practice a new creative hobby, like painting, photography, crochet or sewing. Even summer break is enough time to go from being nervous newbie to proud “Cool! I finished these new projects!”. Most towns will offer workshops in all of the above ideas and more, or head to the internet for infinite resources.
Psst! Bean bags are a super simple, quick beginner’s project. Get the free pattern here.
Indoor activities for tweens and teens when they’re bored
13. Visit an escape room
Many larger towns and cities have an escape room experience to offer. And of course, if your town doesn’t have one or the cost is a turn-off, invest in an exit room card game version so your kids play with their friends at home.
14. Prepare a 3-course meal
Whether it’s for the family or made with a group of their friends, getting into the kitchen is both creative and tasty! Let them choose the recipes, shop the ingredients and get making that delicious home-cooked meal.
15. Host a costume party
Not just an ordinary party, but a costume party! Perhaps suggest they choose a theme, whether it’s DIY costumes only (no purchasing allowed, superheroes, pop stars, favourite influencer… The only limit is your imagination!
16. Organise a murder mystery dinner
OK, it doesn’t have to actually involve a murder; a criminal mystery will do! Again, get your teen or tween to grab a group of friends, dress up in their character role and enjoy an evening of food, fun, and playing the brilliant detective!
17. Book reading challenge
The perfect bored-buster for bookworms! Your kids could organise a book reading challenge with friends or through the local library.
Tip: for summer reading recommendations start at this blog post HERE.
18. Karaoke party
Another fun party idea (the summer holidays are long, right?!?) to enjoy with friends. Karaoke is a chance to show off singing skills outside of the shower 😉. Family karaoke evenings are also a great way to laugh and sing together! There are some fun karaoke machines and microphones available in all price-ranges.
How else can you keep your teen or tween busy in the summer?
19. Volunteer
No matter where you live and what interests your children have, there are most certainly some opportunities for them to volunteer over summer break. Your kids could participate in community projects or volunteer with friends or family. Volunteering not only gives back to the community but gives them a chance to develop new skills and a sense of “job well done!”.
More summer fun ideas for kids and parents
⛱️ Hilarious summertime memes for parents
⛱️ Summer boredom busters for kids
Keeping teens and tweens entertained during summer break can be a challenge (“I’m booooooored!”), but with a little creativity and planning, you can ensure they have a fun and fulfilling time.
Whether they are engaging in solo activities, spending time with friends, or enjoying family outings, there are countless ways to make the most of the summer months.
Encourage your kids to explore new hobbies, stay active, spend quality time with loved ones AND avoid boredom! Here’s to a summer filled with fun, laughter, and adventure!
Have you got more magical summer break ideas? Share them in the comments below!
