holidays | Teen Life

Holiday Bucket List for Teens

by Teen Life | Dec 16, 2024 | Blog, Holidays, Parenting, Sports

Making the Season Memorable and Meaningful

As the holiday season approaches, many teens are looking forward to a break from school routines and some well-deserved downtime. This is the perfect time for adults – whether parents, teachers, or mentors – to help teens make the most of their break by suggesting activities that encourage a mix of fun and growth.

When I think back on my Christmases as a teen, I remember a few gifts, but I mostly remember things like staying up most of the night to finish a 24 marathon with my brother, long car rides to visit grandparents, making sugar cookies as a family, and going to watch White Christmas with my dad in an old theater.

I don’t think it is a coincidence that I remember the things that brought connection, laughter, and joy. They didn’t even cost much!

With that in mind, here are some ideas for an unforgettable holiday, plus challenges teachers can pass along before break begins!

Holiday Bucket List Ideas for Teens

1. Watch a Classic Holiday Movie at the Theater

There’s something magical about seeing an old holiday favorite on the big screen. Whether it’s White Christmas (my personal favorite), It’s a Wonderful Life, Home Alone, or Elf, experiencing these classics in a theater brings a new level of excitement. Encourage teens to go with friends or family members and share the fun of these timeless stories together over popcorn and an Icee.

2. Learn a Family Recipe

Cooking together is a great way to bond, share stories, and build traditions. Challenge teens to spend time with family members to learn a favorite recipe that’s been passed down through generations. Whether it’s baking cookies, making tamales, or cooking a holiday casserole, the process can spark new memories and build confidence in the kitchen (which is a skill they will use for years to come).

3. Organize a Small Holiday Party for Friends

The holiday season is all about gathering with loved ones, so why not encourage teens to host a small get-together with friends? From choosing a theme to planning the activities, snacks, and decorations, organizing a holiday party helps build social skills, teamwork, and even some project management!

4. Volunteer in the Community

The holidays can be a tough time for many, and volunteering is a meaningful way to give back. Teens could spend a day at a local food bank, volunteer at an animal shelter, or even help out with community holiday events. It’s a great reminder of the importance of empathy, kindness, and service during the holiday season. There are also benefits to kindness that can set teens up for success, especially with their mental health.

5. Read a Book (Or Series) Just for Fun

With the busy school schedule, teens may not often get the chance to read for pure enjoyment. Suggest they start a new book or series that they’ve been interested in. Fantasy, romance, mystery – there are so many genres to dive into! For those who prefer short stories or graphic novels, there are countless engaging and accessible options. Or audiobooks are another great way to consume stories if you know a teen who isn’t a big reader!

6. Get Outside and Go on a Winter Walk

For those who enjoy being outdoors, a winter walk can be the perfect escape from screen time. Studies also show that being outside can have a positive impact on mental health, so encourage teens to grab a friend or family member, bundle up, and take a stroll outside. If you want to take it a step further, bring a camera or phone for a mini photography session and allow teens to be creative and capture the beauty of the season.

7. Try a New Hobby or Skill

The holiday break offers a little extra time to explore something new. Teens might want to try their hand at painting, playing a musical instrument, or even learning basic coding. For a bonus, encourage them to team up with friends and learn together – they might discover hidden talents!

Ideas For Teachers and School Staff to Give Teens

I didn’t forget about you! Holiday breaks should be a time for students (and you) to rest and have fun. But there are some fun challenges that you could give for some extra credit or to encourage your students to grow and learn over the break.

Here are just a few you could try:

1. Read-a-thon: Challenge students to read a certain number of books or pages over the break. They can track their books and find recommendations in apps like Goodreads or StoryGraph.

2. Learn a New Language: Have them use language learning apps or websites to learn a new language. See who can have the longest Duolingo streak over the break!

3. Research a Unique Holiday Tradition from Another Culture: Challenge teens to learn about a holiday tradition from a culture different from their own. They could even try recreating a dish or craft from that tradition to share with friends and family.

4. Dear Future Self: Encourage teens to take a quiet moment to write a letter to themselves, sharing what they’re proud of, what they’re excited about, and any hopes or goals they have for the future. After break, you can collect these letters and mail them back at the end of the school year.

The best gifts we can give teens are opportunities for connection, growth, and joy.

Whether it’s learning a family recipe, hosting a party, or simply taking a walk to admire winter’s beauty, these moments often become the cherished memories they carry into adulthood.

Encourage the teens in your life to embrace the holiday spirit by trying something new, reconnecting with loved ones, or giving back to their community. With just a little inspiration and guidance, this holiday season can be one they’ll treasure for years to come.

As you check off items on your own holiday to-do list, remember to make space for the little things that bring meaning and magic. The teens you support will thank you, and you’ll both walk away with memories that outshine any gift wrapped under the tree.

Karlie Duke

Communications Director

More Resources You Might Like

Winter Holidays in the classroom - Kwanzaa, Christmas, Hannukah, Winter Solstice

Valentine Gift and Date Ideas + Learning an Instrument | Ep. 145

by Teen Life | Feb 6, 2024 | Dating, Holidays, Parenting, Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Listen & Subscribe

The Benefits of Learning to Play an Instrument

In a world filled with screens and digital distractions, encouraging your teen to pick up a musical instrument might seem like a quaint suggestion.

However, the benefits of learning to play an instrument extend far beyond the realms of entertainment. From fostering discipline to enhancing cognitive abilities, the journey of learning an instrument is a symphony of personal and intellectual development.

Let’s start with the advantages of embracing music education, discuss some easy instruments to start with, and highlight the importance of delving into the world of music theory.

Why Music Benefits Every Teen

Cognitive Development
Playing an instrument engages various regions of the brain simultaneously, enhancing cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Research has shown that musical training can have a positive impact on academic performance, particularly in subjects like mathematics and language.
Discipline and Time Management
Learning an instrument requires consistent practice and dedication. As teens commit to regular practice sessions, they develop discipline and time management skills. This commitment can translate into improved academic performance and a strong work ethic that will benefit them in various aspects of life.
Emotional Expression and Stress Relief
Music is a powerful form of emotional expression. Learning to play an instrument provides a healthy outlet for teens to express their feelings and cope with stress. Playing music can be a therapeutic and cathartic experience, allowing teens to navigate the complexities of adolescence with greater emotional intelligence.
Social Skills
Joining a school band or participating in musical ensembles introduces teens to teamwork and collaboration. Playing in a group setting fosters a sense of community and helps teens develop valuable social skills such as communication, cooperation, and empathy.

Try these instruments for great start.

Ukulele
The ukulele is a fantastic choice for beginners due to its small size, simplicity, and the ease with which basic chords can be learned. It’s a great introduction to string instruments and provides a fun way to start making music.

Keyboard/Piano
The piano is another beginner-friendly instrument. Its layout is logical, making it easier for beginners to grasp musical concepts. Many popular songs have simple piano arrangements, making it an enjoyable instrument to learn.

Guitar
While the guitar may seem challenging at first, it’s a versatile instrument that can be learned gradually. Starting with basic chords and simple songs allows teens to build confidence and progress at their own pace.

The Benefits of Learning Music Theory:

Understanding music theory enhances the overall learning experience and provides a solid foundation for musical proficiency. Here’s why music theory is essential:

Improves Musical Fluency: Knowing music theory enables teens to read sheet music, understand musical symbols, and communicate effectively with other musicians. This fluency accelerates their learning and opens up a broader range of musical opportunities.
Encourages Creativity: Music theory is not about rigid rules but rather a set of guidelines that empower teens to experiment and create their own music. It unlocks the door to creativity, allowing them to compose and arrange their pieces.
Facilitates Mastery of the Instrument: A strong grasp of music theory enables teens to understand the underlying principles of their chosen instrument. This knowledge contributes to mastery, allowing them to go beyond rote learning and truly connect with the music they play.

Learning to play an instrument is a transformative journey that goes beyond the simple act of making music. It nurtures discipline, enhances cognitive abilities, fosters emotional expression, and develops social skills. Starting with easy instruments like the ukulele, keyboard/piano, or guitar can make the initial learning phase enjoyable and accessible. Additionally, delving into music theory provides a deeper understanding of the art form, unlocking a world of creative possibilities.

As a parent or teen coach, you can get excited when your teen embarks on a dream of becoming a rock star. It may seem like just a fun pastime, but the intellectual and social benefits go well beyond child’s play!

If you’re interested in learning more…

Books:

“The Talent Code: Greatness Isn’t Born. It’s Grown. Here’s How.” by Daniel Coyle

“Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain” by Oliver Sacks

“The Practice of Practice: How to Boost Your Music Skills” by Jonathan Harnum

“This Is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession” by Daniel J. Levitin

Websites and Articles:

American Psychological Association (APA): Music Students Score Better in Math, Science, English Than Nonmusical Peers

Psychology Today: Musical Training Optimizes Brain Function

Psychology Today: Music and the Brain

Online Learning Platforms:

Yousician – An interactive platform for learning various instruments, including guitar, piano, and ukulele.

Coursera – Fundamentals of Music Theory – A comprehensive online course for beginners interested in music theory.

Instrument-Specific Resources:

Ukulele Underground – Offers tutorials and resources for ukulele players of all levels.

JustinGuitar – A popular website for learning guitar with beginner-friendly lessons.

Piano Marvel – An online platform for learning piano with interactive lessons and practice tools.

Also, remember to explore local music schools, community centers, and private music teachers for personalized guidance and additional resources.

Dating Advice for Teens:

Navigating teen relationships is not easy. Balancing school, family, friends, and extracurriculars is hard enough! These tips are great for encouraging teens who want to date while also keeping it fun and age-appropriate.

Be intentional. Simply being thoughtful and intentional can go a long way to show you care! Plan dates and gifts ahead of time. Use your time together to encourage and uplift.
Focus on having fun. Teenage relationships should be FUN! If they are causing stress or full of fighting and tears, it might be time to move on.
Set expectations early. Talk about boundaries and how much time you want to spend together at the beginning. It is helpful when both people come into the relationship on the same page.
Know where you are in your relationship. Don’t rush things or compare your relationship to others. It is okay to take your time and enjoy the relationship for what it is!

Also in this episode:

Valentine’s Day gifts, dates, and advice for parents of teens.

In this episode, we mentioned or used the following resources.

Valentine Date Ideas: Melting Pot | Main Event
Podcast music by Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges

Have a question?

If you have a question about something you heard or just want to give us some feedback, please leave us a comment below. We would love to hear from you!