The teenage years are a time of self-discovery, growth and learning new skills. Having a hobby is not only fun, but it also provides mental and even physical benefits. Hobbies help boost self-esteem, relieve stress, and learn new things. They also look great on university applications and CVs. Here are some of the best hobbies for teenage girls looking for something extra to fill their time.
Creative Pursuits
Creative hobbies allow teenage girls to express themselves, tap into their imagination, and even make some money on the side. Great creative hobbies include:
- Drawing/Painting – Pick up a pencil, paintbrush or tablet stylus and start doodling or creating art. Take an art class to develop skills. Sell artwork online or enter contests.
- Writing – Keep a journal to record thoughts and feelings. Try your hand at poetry, song lyrics or stories. Consider starting a blog. Join a writers group and submit work to teen publications.
- Photography – Use a smartphone or DSLR camera to take artistic photos. Experiment with lighting, scenery and editing. Build a photography portfolio. Sell stock photos online.
- Jewellery Making – String beads, wire wrap stones, or make earrings, bracelets and necklaces to wear or give as gifts. Sell jewellery online or at craft fairs.
If you’re fostering with Fosterplus, use some of your fostering allowance to buy craft supplies.
Fitness Activities
Physical hobbies provide exercise and mental health benefits. Great fitness hobbies for teens include:
- Running – This simple sport needs just a good pair of trainers. Join a local running club for motivation and enter fun runs or races.
- Swimming – An excellent low-impact exercise. Join a swim team or just go to the municipal pool for some laps. Having good swimming skills is a lifelong asset.
- Cycling – Ride a bike around town or take longer rides in the countryside. Join a group cycle ride. Enter a charity bike race. Mountain biking offers an adventurous option.
- Dance – Take hip-hop, ballet, jazz or contemporary dance lessons. Dance is great exercise and a creative outlet. Join a dance crew or take part in competitions.
Learning and Mind-Expanding Pursuits
Some hobbies help expand the mind, pick up new skills and look great on university applications. These include:
- Coding – Learn to make apps and programs. Start with simple languages like HTML or Python. Join a coding club or take online classes.
- Volunteering – Give back to the community by volunteering at a charity shop, animal shelter or conservation project. This builds skills and confidence and looks great on a CV.
- Learning an Instrument – Choose guitar, piano, drums or another instrument and take lessons. Join or start a band. Perform at open mic nights.
- Learning a Language – Pick a language like Spanish, German or Mandarin and start learning. Use language apps, take classes or join a conversation club to practice speaking.
The teenage years are the perfect time to explore different hobbies and interests. There are so many options out there to choose from. Encourage teenage girls to try various activities to unlock hidden passions and build skills for the future.
