Do you find your teen easily bored? Here are a few boredom busters that came straight from my work with teenagers in our community.
Stay active! It’s important to add exercise to your daily life. Take a walk with your family or friends, get out on your bike or skateboard, learn a new dance, or head to the lake for a swim.
Stay ahead in school! Maintain a regular school schedule, stay organized, finish your homework daily, and get ahead if you can. If you’re having trouble, don’t forget your teachers are still available to help you out.
Get creative! Now is a great time to try something new. Pick up the instrument gathering dust in the corner. Try your hand at drawing or painting or engage your family by creating a “Boredom Buster Jar.” Cut some strips of paper, have everyone in your household think of a few fun activities you could do together and place the ideas in a jar. Choose a new activity every day! Some of the activities in the jar may include planning a movie night, baking cookies together, playing charades or kick the can, and having a family game night.
Give back to your community! You can impact your community in positive ways. Choose your favorite cause and find a volunteer opportunity. Make and send cards to people living in local care facilities to brighten their day or simply write some inspirational quotes on your sidewalk to cheer up your neighbors.
Keep your spirits up! It’s hard not to focus on all of the scary things happening in our world right now so it’s important to stay connected to friends and family, share your thoughts and feelings, and ask for support if you need it.
Written by Leila J. Erlandson, MA, LMFT
Trovarti Counseling LLC 