Bored This Summer?
By Chelsie, age 14, South Wales, United Kingdom
Wow! What a year 2009 has been! It's gone so fast here in Britain I can barely believe it. Anyway, summer's here, the sun is staying out, and it's time for some fun! I know a lot of us get REALLY bored in the summer, so I've put some stuff together to keep you happy.
1. Why not keep fit this summer by interacting with some of the boys (and girls) and play football (soccer) or tennis, or just play some catch games. It's fun, keeps you fit, and keeps you well in with your boy mates.
2. Go out for long walks with your pet (if you have one), and if your friends do too, why not invite them? It's fun. You can talk about your day, and you can let your animals play while you and your friends ditch the boredom.
3. Pamper yourself. It's worth it. There's no need to go to expensive places to pamper yourself. Mash up some fruits and stick them on your face for a face mask - more fun doing it with your friends! You should get into a right mess! Have a girly sleepover where you do each other's makeup and hair, and just enjoy it. It will completely de-stress you.
4. If you're on your own for the day, why not buy or rent a nice comedy or romance DVD and make a big bowl of popcorn? Once you've finished that, maybe relax in the sun. If you have a nice lawn or garden, lie on the grass and listen to some music. Then, if you're still bored, go for a little run.
5. Bike rides, rollerblading, skatebording. They're not just for bikers and skaters, you know. Skate parks are sure to let you in, whether you're girly, emo or chav - everyone's welcome. So why not take up a new hobby this summer and learn to do something fresh and exciting? (Remember to keep safe!)
6. Join playschemes*, or do other volunteer work. If you know a place where they help kids keep away from boredom in the summer, do some volunteer work there. Just ask them about it, but make sure you're the first to volunteer - often places go quick!
7. Photography. If you have a camera, remember to take some stunning photos this summer, make a scrapbook, and fill it with all your 2009 summer memories!
I hope you enjoyed reading this, and I really hope it's helped. Be active, not bored, this summer!! :)
* In the UK, "out of school holiday playschemes provide care for school aged children during the school holidays. Activities can include sports, outdoor and indoor games, arts, crafts and drama, swimming and day trips. They are usually based on school premises or in a local community building." (Surrey County Council website)
