by Helen Moyer, Library manager
Active hobbies for Preteens
Got a live wire at home who bounces off the walls like a pinball? We've all been there, and let me tell you, channeling that energy into something positive is like discovering a secret superpower. Here's a list of active hobbies that are practically tailor-made for your kinetic kiddo.
Rock Climbing
Ever watch a superhero scale a building and think, "Yep, my preteen could totally do that"? Rock climbing is the next best thing! It's all about strategy and agility—like a game of chess where the pieces are your own limbs. And the look on their face when they reach the top? Priceless.
Skateboarding
Skateboarding is the art of rolling with style, and preteens are natural artists. They'll carve the ramps like they're painting their masterpiece on wheels. And when they finally nail that new trick after a dozen tries, they'll learn that perseverance pays off—in cheers and high-fives.
Martial Arts
Envision your preteen, not just breaking boards, but breaking through barriers. Every kick and punch is a lesson in self-control and inner strength. And let's be real: watching them earn their belts is like leveling up in the coolest video game ever.
Swimming
Imagine a world where the pool is a stage, and your preteen is the star of the show. Swimming turns 'lap time' into 'applause time' as they glide through the water like dolphins. And who knows, they might just thank you one day for those early morning swim practices—well, we can hope!
Dance
Does your living room often transform into a dance floor? Embrace it! Dance is the secret language of the soul, and preteens are fluent. Whether they're into hip-hop beats or ballet leaps, they're writing their own epic story, one move at a time.
Soccer
There's nothing quite like the thrill of the pitch, where every pass is a potential game-changer. Soccer teaches preteens that every player, no matter how small, can make a big impact. And those victory dances after scoring are the stuff of backyard legend.
Cycling
There's a special kind of magic in a bike ride—call it the 'wheeled wonder'. It's about the wind in their hair, the path ahead, and the freedom to explore. Plus, it's a lesson in mechanics—because sooner or later, they'll learn to fix a flat tire (with a little help, of course).
Hiking
Think of hiking as the ultimate 'choose your own adventure'—every trail is a new chapter. It's about discovering hidden waterfalls and ancient trees, with your preteen as the intrepid explorer. And yes, it's totally okay to pretend you're on a quest to find a lost treasure—adventure awaits!
Gardening
Gardening might sound old-school, but it's actually Earth's version of a science lab. Your preteen will learn the art of patience and the science of growth—witnessing the transformation from seed to sunflower is kind of a big deal. And when they serve up a salad with their home-grown veggies, it's like winning a nature badge of honor.