It’s not uncommon for teens to go through phases where they seem uninterested in participating in activities, especially during the summer. Whether it’s due to burnout, uncertainty about their interests, or simple resistance, the key is to help them take small, manageable steps forward. Here are three tips to help your teen re-engage and discover meaningful activities:

1. Start a Conversation

The first step is understanding your teen’s perspective. Ask open-ended questions about what excites them, what they’re worried about, or why they’re hesitant to try something new.

• Why It Matters: Teens are more likely to engage in activities when they feel their opinions and concerns are heard.
• How to Do It: Avoid pushing or lecturing. Instead, try, “If you could spend the whole day doing something you enjoy, what would it be?”
• Outcome: This approach helps uncover hidden interests or fears, giving you insight into how to support them.

2. Begin with Small, Fun Steps

Jumping into a big commitment can feel overwhelming for a teen who’s reluctant to participate. Start with low-pressure activities that are easy to try.

• Ideas to Start: Bake a family recipe together, volunteer at a local animal shelter for an afternoon, or take a short hike at a nearby park.
• Why It Works: These activities require little preparation or commitment, making them approachable.
• Example: A teen who resists social settings might enjoy walking dogs for a neighbor—a solitary activity that still feels productive.

3. Connect to Their Interests

Finding activities that align with what your teen already enjoys is one of the most effective ways to spark engagement.

• How to Connect: Relate hobbies or pastimes to potential activities. For instance, if your teen enjoys gaming, they might explore a coding class. An artist could try a local workshop, or a social teen might thrive in a group volunteer project.
• Why It Works: When teens see a direct link between their passions and a new activity, they’re more motivated to participate.

Final Thoughts

Re-engaging a reluctant teen takes patience and creativity, but starting small and aligning activities with their interests can make a big difference. By listening to their perspective and offering low-pressure opportunities, you can help your teen find purpose and joy in their summer.