I DON'T DO TEENAGERS ◽ HOME
By the time our kids are truly teens, they are often in sports activities or other after-school clubs, or they want to hibernate in their rooms, or maybe they’re often invited to hang out with friends. And the nights we have them home without obligations elsewhere become rare evenings, for sure. We want to make the best of these times, but they may balk or whine or say they just want to be on their phones. But what if we had a list to work from, activities to choose and enjoy…on those rare evenings when our teens are home and we are, too?
A craft – Stop by Hobby Lobby (it seems there’s always something 40% off!) and grab a diamond art, or paint by number kit. Make a few snacks and enjoy this artsy night together, admiring each other’s creations when you’re done!
A movie – Maybe there’s a movie you and he could watch together, and he could pick out the snacks. If your kids haven’t seen the movie Harriet, that might be a good one for a night in together! What a great story, about Harriet Tubman.
Baking, anyone? Sometimes, teens are in the mood to make cookies or bake bread, or even granola. Let them pick the recipe, gather the ingredients, put on some music (and maybe cute aprons!) and cook together. Do a little dance in the kitchen, while you’re at it.
Sketch – If you’ve got an afternoon instead of an evening where your teen is free to sit outside with you, gather some pencils and paper and sketch. Sketch nature and talk about creation and the wonder of God’s beauty around you.
Shop – maybe they need some winter clothes, or a new coat or some boots. Yes, they like to shop with friends, but they will have fun with you, too. Create a budget, talk about what stores to hit, and where you might stop for a treat after. No electronics allowed in the car…only fun conversation.
Reading – Does your teen love books? What if you both grabbed a book and spent a couple hours reading, stopping every 15 minutes to share what you just read? Or, read the same book and discuss along the way. You could even make a bookmark together before you begin.
Exercise – Oh yes, they’re going to be stronger and have more stamina than you do. However, you can totally have fun at a park or a gym, together. Set your pace, drink lots of water, walk a trail or ride your bikes. And let them pick a boba tea place or even a coffee shop, after.
As your kids grow, your time apart grows as well. But it’s important to grab those connections and opportunities often, and even schedule them on the calendar, along with everything else. Enjoy each other in those rare moments when you’re not instructing or scolding, but just smiling at this young adult that lives in your home!