7 Ways to Keep Teens Entertained During the Holidays

Keeping teens engaged during the school holidays doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune or battling boredom. With a little creativity and some forward planning, you can turn their break into a time of discovery, connection, and fun. Here are seven simple yet meaningful ideas to help teens stay happy, active, and inspired—no matter where you are.

1. Tackle a Room Makeover Together

Teens love having a space that reflects their personality. A DIY room makeover is a great way to encourage self-expression while keeping them busy. Whether it’s a splash of paint, rearranging furniture, or crafting personalised décor, this project is both productive and rewarding.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a colour scheme or theme they love.

• Set a realistic budget.

• Use Pinterest or Instagram for inspiration.

• Make it fun with music and snacks.

Not only will they enjoy the creative process, but they’ll also learn useful home improvement skills and gain a space they’re proud of.

2. Begin a Fitness Challenge

The holidays are a great time to introduce healthy habits. From dance workouts to yoga sessions or even couch-to-5K apps, there are endless ways to stay active. Let your teen pick a routine that excites them, and consider joining in for motivation.

3. Launch a Craft-Based Side Hustle

Does your teen enjoy creating jewellery, art, or custom clothing? Turn that passion into a mini business. Selling handmade items on platforms like Etsy or social media helps them build confidence and learn real-world business skills.

Help them:

• Choose a craft they love

• Set up a simple online store

• Market their creations via Instagram or TikTok

It’s a holiday hobby with long-term potential.

4. Try Digital Storytelling

Encourage teens to express themselves through a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel. Whether they love gaming, music, fashion, or storytelling, digital platforms offer an exciting outlet for creativity.

They can get started with:

• Canva (graphics)

• Audacity (audio)

• CapCut or iMovie (video editing)

This type of project builds communication skills—and might just uncover a future passion.

5. Enrol in an Online Course

Online learning platforms like Skillshare, Coursera, and Udemy offer thousands of courses tailored to teens. Whether they want to try coding, photography, baking, or finance basics, this is a smart way to make their break both fun and enriching.

Let them choose a topic that truly interests them and create a flexible schedule that fits around other plans.

6. Organise a Virtual Game Night

If your teen is missing their friends during the break, a virtual games night can help them reconnect. From online trivia and multiplayer games to virtual board games, the options are endless—and the laughter is guaranteed.

Set up a Zoom or Discord call, prepare a few favourite games, and let them host a digital hangout that brings everyone together.

7. Volunteer for a Cause They Care About

Volunteering gives teens a sense of purpose and connection. Many charities now offer remote opportunities—like tutoring younger children, helping with digital marketing, or writing for nonprofit blogs.

Why it’s worth it:

• Builds empathy and confidence

• Strengthens college/job applications

• Offers flexible schedules

• Promotes real-world impact

Get Ready for Back to School with Clive Mark

As the holidays draw to a close and thoughts turn to the new school term, many parents trust Clive Mark for reliable, high-quality schoolwear. Whether you’re shopping for the first day back or stocking up on essentials, Clive Mark makes it easy to get your teen ready and feeling confident for the year ahead.

Final Thoughts

The school holidays are a perfect time to help teens explore their interests, develop new skills, and create lasting memories. From creative projects to social experiences and personal growth, these seven activities offer something for every kind of teen.

So, sit down with your teen, pick one or two ideas that excite them, and make this holiday break one they’ll remember for all the right reasons.