Hobbies with kids and adults come and go. My husband and I have discussed this with our son on different occasions. Our son, age 10, has so many interests, which is part of being a kid, but also a result of his ADHD. From a parent perspective, having different hobbies allows him to use his imagination and creativity, and have those areas really flourish. It is exciting to have your kids try new things, even if they find that they are not interested in that activity.
Sports
Your child’s school, or even your town might offer various sports options. Where we live, there are a lot of programs that are offered through the town Recreation department. These programs are often 6-8 weeks long, which allows the kids to get a “taste” of the sport and to learn the basics. My son has played soccer, dodgeball, floor hockey, and basketball all through our town rec. All of the programs vary in price depending on what they are and what is involved, but we appreciate having these options.
Other places sometimes offer a monthly trial, or a month to month payment option, with the understanding that kids interests are so fluid and change often.
Art
Art is a hobby where you can explore so many different styles and mediums. My son has had an recent desire to learn to draw. He had a friend in his class last year, that I would say was advanced in drawing for being only 9 years old. My son learned a lot of techniques from him.
More recently, he has been watching tutorial videos on YouTube to enhance these drawing skills. In January, his school welcomed mural artist, Bren Bataclan, to teach the kids how to draw and then Bren drew the students’ pictures onto the wall incorporating them into a mural. My son used a YouTube tutorial to draw a hawk, which is the school’s mascot. When he brought it to school the next day, it was a hit with everyone and they decided to use his hawk drawing in the center of the mural. He was so honored to have his drawing front and center and among the other students’ pictures.
Music
A friend gave my son a guitar for Christmas. It was previously loved by her son, but he bought a new one, so she gave the older guitar to my son. He asked us to get him an amp, but we told him that he needs to practice and show commitment, then we can get an amp at the end of the school year. He asked his grandmother for a “Cord Buddy” and instructional books for Christmas. In addition, he also watches YouTube tutorials for how to play and use the “Cord Buddy.” His goal for music is to play guitar in his school band next year.
Using the Hands
The hands-on things that kids can do are building with Lego/blocks, playing with toys, reading, and helping prepare a meal or dessert. Reading can be more interactive by asking your child questions about what is happening and who the characters are. Kitchen time hobbies can be strengthen if you teach your child how to prepare your favorite meal. Heck, combine their love for reading a cooking by getting a children’s cookbook from your local library or from Amazon.
Outdoor time
Outdoor time is a must in our family. We love being outdoors, whether it is for a walk around the neighborhood, playing a sport, or enjoying the serenity of a peaceful woods.
My son’s love for all of these hobbies is his “superpower.” I really think that he will be doing at least one of these hobbies as a career. Encourage your kids to try new things, but emphasize that their hobbies are for THEIR interest first, then pleasing other people second. Enjoy exploring the new limitless opportunities.
