Pre-teens, generally between 9 and 12, can be challenging to keep occupied during the holidays. However, keeping them engaged in productive activities that will help them develop new skills and stimulate their minds is essential.
The holidays can be an excellent time for parents to engage their pre-teens in productive activities that will help them develop new skills, enhance their creativity, and stimulate their minds. It is important to involve pre-teens in activities they find interesting and enjoyable to make the most of their holiday break.
Here are eight fun activities for your preteen during the holidays.
Reading
Encourage your pre-teen to read various books that interest them. Take them to the library and let them choose books that they find appealing. You can also read books together and discuss the storylines and themes.
Arts and Crafts
Pre-teens can engage in various art and craft activities such as painting, drawing, knitting, and pottery. Parents can buy art supplies or enroll them in an art class to enhance their skills.
Cooking
Involve your pre-teen in cooking meals or baking treats during the holidays. Teach them how to cook basic meals or bake desserts, and let them participate in the preparation and cooking process.
Volunteering
Encourage your pre-teen to volunteer in community service activities such as helping at a food bank, shelter, or charity organization. This can help them develop a sense of responsibility and compassion for others.
Outdoor Activities
Parents can take their pre-teens out for nature walks, hiking, bike rides, or playing outdoor sports like soccer, basketball, or football. These activities will help them stay active and healthy while enjoying the fresh air.
Learning a New Language
Pre-teens can learn a new language during the holidays through online courses, books, or by attending a language class. Learning a new language can open up new opportunities and enhance their cultural understanding.
STEM Activities
Parents can engage their pre-teens in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) activities such as building robots, coding, or conducting science experiments. These activities will help them develop problem-solving skills and enhance their creativity.
Music and Dance
Pre-teens can learn to play a musical instrument or dance during the holidays. Parents can enroll them in music or dance classes or teach them basic skills at home. This can help them develop their artistic talents and creativity.
Why it is important to keep your child active and productive
Keeping your child active and productive is essential for several reasons, including:
- Physical health: Regular physical activity can improve your child’s overall health and reduce the risk of developing various health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Mental health: Staying active and productive can also improve your child’s mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Engaging in productive activities can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
- Socialization: Active and productive activities can help your child develop social skills and friendships. Group activities or team sports can also teach your child teamwork and communication skills.
- Skill development: Productive activities can help your child develop new skills, such as playing a musical instrument, learning a new language, or coding. Developing new skills can boost your child’s confidence and provide a sense of achievement.
- Time management: Engaging in productive activities can teach your child time management skills and help them learn how to prioritize tasks and responsibilities.
Finally, these fun activities for your preteen will not only keep them engaged but will benefit their physical and mental health, socialization, skill development, and time management.
By providing your child with opportunities to engage in productive activities, you can help them develop into well-rounded and successful individuals. Here’s what you need to know about educational online games.
