9 Ways for Youth to Stay Busy This Summer

Now that school is out for the summer, you might find yourself with a lot more free time then you know what to do with. If you are looking for ways to fill up your time during the summer months, you have come to the right place! Here are 9 ways that you can stay busy this summer:

1. Take on a New Hobby

Think of all the times you have wanted to try something but haven’t had the chance. Summer is a great time to explore your interests and pick up a new hobby! Whether it be a learning to play an instrument, practicing sport, or doing a craft you have been waiting to try out, take some time this summer to give it a go.

2. Volunteer

Volunteering your time is a good way to stay busy while also helping out in your community. There are always people and organizations who will benefit from your help and Nova Scotia is rich with opportunities for volunteering. Plus, it is a great way to learn more about your local area and meet new people! Try looking online or ask around and you will be sure to find something that is the right fit for you.

3. Go to a Community Event

Whether it be a concert, parade, firework show, or a barbeque; attending community events allows you to connect with others and have fun during the summer months. Taking advantage of the different things happening in your community offers the perfect chance to have fun with others while making great memories.

4. Get Together with Friends

Social connection is important at any time of the year, but especially in the summer when you might not have the same opportunities to interact with others the way you do when school is in session. Summer vacation is the perfect time to make lifelong memories with the people that you are closest with, so make sure to get out and have fun with your friends!

5. Get a Job

Summer is the perfect time to get a job if you are ready for it and gain valuable work experience. And as a bonus, it will give you a chance to earn some money! Look around your local area for job postings, as there should be lots of opportunities for youth during the summertime.

6. Learn a New Skill

If you have spare time during the summer, it might be the perfect chance for you to add to your skill set! Try taking an online course or attending a workshop and see what new things you learn. This is a great opportunity to pursue something you have always been interested in while also gaining a skill to put on your resume!

7. Look into Summer Programs and Activities

During the summer, a lot of organizations and local community centres offer summer programming for people of all ages. Whether you like to attend or help out at camps, drop into youth nights, or take courses, there are so many opportunities to get involved with activities even during summer vacation.

8. Explore a New Place

If you get bored of being in the same environment all the time, try going somewhere new. It doesn’t always have to be an extravagant trip, sometimes the best places are only a few minutes away. Checking out a new park or neighbourhood can be the perfect way to clear your head and nurture your adventurous spirit!

9. Take Time to Relax

While it is easy to think that having a full schedule is the best way to be productive, summer is also the perfect time to unwind and reset yourself. Make sure to sleep in, read your favourite book, catch up on the latest season of your favourite show, and do what you need to do to take care of yourself. Always remember to set aside time where you can relax and enjoy being in the moment. After all, you only have two months before school starts again!

Have a good summer! From the team at SEED.

-Sophie Ashton, Co-op Student

Alison Burrows