June is the time when the heat is at its peak and you just want to take a break from the scorching sun. It means- summer vacation for kids. Kids always find ways to keep themselves busy, but what about young adults? Most of them are addicted to their gadgets, watching wildly or playing online games. Obviously, this is not healthy for them. Yes, homework will keep them busy, but you should also encourage your child to engage in some summer hobbies to boost their mental health.
There are outdoor activities they can engage in. If not, they can try other options suggested by an expert. Health Shots collated by Mehjabeen Dordi, Clinical Psychologist, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, to help you brainstorm summer hobbies your child can try.
Summer hobbies to improve kids’ mental health
Hiking or bicycling can be a great way to enjoy the summer holidays. This means getting outside and enjoying nature while getting some exercise. Dordie says that from a mental health perspective, hiking can reduce stress, improve mood and boost self-esteem.
Here are some more ideas for summer hobbies your child can get involved in:
1. Horticulture
Gardening is a relaxing and rewarding hobby that can reduce stress and anxiety. It can also provide your child with a sense of accomplishment as the plants grow and flourish under their care.
2. Creative hobby
Don’t want your baby to be exposed to heat? Let them engage in a creative hobby like painting or drawing. These activities sound easy, but can actually help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Experts say art can be a therapeutic hobby that fosters self-expression and creativity. It can also be a way to reduce stress and anxiety by providing a relaxing and meditative activity.
3. Yoga and Meditation
Yoga is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety while improving flexibility and balance. It also promotes mindfulness, which can help youth stay present and focused.
4. Write
Writing can be a therapeutic hobby that fosters self-reflection and self-expression. It can also improve cognitive function and reduce stress by providing a way to process and organize thoughts and feelings.
5. Reading
Reading takes you to another world and helps improve cognitive function. It can reduce stress and improve mental health by promoting relaxation.
6. Learning a new language
Learning a new language is a mentally stimulating hobby that can boost self-confidence and open up new opportunities for social interactions and travel, says Dordie.
7. Volunteering
Volunteering not only helps others, but it can also foster a sense of purpose and self-worth by giving back to the community. It can also help them make social connections and reduce stress by focusing on the needs of others.
8. Music
Playing an instrument or listening to music can be a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood. So, you can suggest your child to learn to play piano, guitar or any musical instrument for better mental health.
9. Cooking
Cooking is not just a mother’s job. It is a creative and rewarding hobby that anyone can do. It can provide a sense of accomplishment and improve self-esteem. It can also reduce stress by providing a relaxing and meditative activity.
These activities can help promote better mental health. Healthy hobbies are also important because engaging in physical activities such as sports, hiking or dancing can help young people maintain good physical health, which may reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases later in life. Participating in group activities can help youth develop social skills such as communication, teamwork and leadership. With so many benefits, there’s no reason why your child shouldn’t take up a healthy hobby this summer.
