HEALTH

SCHOOL HOLIDAY – SOME TIPS ON OVERCOMING BOREDOM

The school holidays often result in the phrase ‘I’m bored’ being used. It is not a bad thing to be doing nothing however most of our young people struggle to entertain themselves and have been used to a very scheduled and busy four terms at school. Some believe it is unnatural to stop and rest and feel that they should be doing something.

Usually the first couple of weeks are okay as not only is there a little bit of a wind down from a hectic year at school, but the holiday season often comes with specific outings and activities planned for them.

Unless your family is going away, the 2nd and 3rd week of January can be the hardest when trying to think of things for a teenager to do. It is also hard to think of things that are not costly.

Some ideas that have been shared with me are listed below and believe me, some of the most mundane have provided the most satisfaction and enjoyment for teens, irrespective of their gender. Some teens are not happy ‘vegging’ but want something constructive to do. These are presented in no particular order.

1.     Room Improvement - This may include decluttering, moving furniture or even painting and redecorating.

2.     Paint a picture - maybe frame it and put it on the redecorated bedroom wall;

3.     Organise a ‘Traditional picnic’ at the local park with friends;

4.     Buy a colouring book and colour in for pleasure and relaxation;

5.     Cook - Your favourite desert, a cake or a meal for the family and/or friends;

6.     Create or extend a veggie garden;

7.     Have a board game night or series of nights; preferably with the entire family;

8.     Select and read a book from a different genre than you usually would;

9.     Write a handwritten letter to your best friend;

10.  Write a story for younger siblings;

11.  Watch classic movies from the 1980s or earlier;

12.   Create a family photo book;

13.  Create and frame a family photo collage;

14.  Catch up with family and friends who you haven’t seen for a while.

There may also be an opportunity to do something good for others too! Offer time to an elderly relative or neighbour to help with shopping or gardening. Offer help to a mum with young children. Maybe babysitting?

Now that I have given you a few ideas, it is likely that you will think of other possibilities.

The list of things to do is endless…….

Susan Wilken

Health Learning Area Manager