Engaging in activities as a family during the summer is fun and can help reduce the risk of substance use among children and teenagers. Here are some great activities that families can do together and where to look in your community:
Outdoor Sports and Recreation: Activities like hiking, biking, swimming, or playing team sports not only promote physical health but also strengthen family bonds and provide a natural high from exercise. If you are unsure where to look for these activities, check with your local park districts, YMCAs, parks, and nature centers.
Camping or Nature Trips: Spending time in nature can be incredibly rejuvenating. Camping trips allow families to disconnect from screens, bond around a campfire and appreciate the natural world together. Campsites include state parks, local campgrounds and lakes, and KOAs, which vary in cost and amenities.
Arts and Crafts: Engaging in creative activities such as painting, pottery, or DIY projects at home encourages self-expression and can be a therapeutic way to spend time together indoors or outdoors. Museums, zoos, libraries, nature centers, farmers' markets, and other youth-serving organizations may host different arts and crafts opportunities.
Volunteering: Participating in community service activities teaches empathy and social responsibility. Look for local volunteer opportunities like cleaning up a park, helping at a food bank, or participating in neighborhood improvement projects.
Cooking and Meal Preparation: Cooking together as a family promotes healthy eating habits and provides an opportunity for communication and teamwork. Try experimenting with new recipes or hosting a family barbecue. Organizations such as U of I Extension, hospitals, and local colleges often host classes in different communities to teach youth about healthy food choices.
Day Trips to Cultural or Educational Sites: Visiting museums, historical landmarks, or cultural festivals can be educational and enjoyable. They broaden children's horizons and foster curiosity about the world. Living in Illinois, we are surrounded by Abraham Lincoln historical sites, children's museums, the Underground Railroad sites, Mark Twain historical sites, New Salem, and many more.
Family Game Nights: Whether indoors or outdoors, playing board games, card games, or organizing scavenger hunts can be fun and encourage healthy competition and cooperation. Check your local library or game shop for opportunities to learn about new games, or search online for fun scavenger hunt ideas.
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Activities like yoga, meditation, or simply practicing deep breathing exercises together can help reduce stress and promote emotional well-being for everyone in the family. Community organizations like libraries, park districts, and YMCAs often sponsor special opportunities to engage in these activities for free or at a low cost.
Family Movie Nights/Concerts in the Park: Choose age-appropriate movies or documentaries that spark discussions about important topics or values. It’s a relaxing way to unwind together after a day of activities. Check your local libraries, park districts, arts programs, and cities for listings.
Open Communication and Quality Time: Maintaining open communication within the family and spending quality time together is crucial. This fosters trust, strengthens relationships, and creates a supportive environment that reduces the likelihood of risky behaviors like substance use.
By engaging in these activities, families can create lasting memories, strengthen their bonds, and provide children and teenagers with healthy alternatives to risky behaviors during summer and beyond.
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