Balance is a concept we parents should strive to teach our kids.  For most kids and teens there is school, usually some sports and homework.  But many find little time for a hobby. 

A hobby should be something that your child enjoys; ideally it will be unrelated to the other activities in their life.  For example, if your child plays soccer a hobby not directly related to soccer would be desirable.  It is about developing your child’s interest and broadening their awareness.    It should also be something that they come to enjoy.  The younger your child, the more you need to be involved in helping them experiment until they find a hobby they really like.  The idea is to expand their experiential base and help them understand new ideas and learn new skills.  Keep in mind many football players take ballet. 

So what are some hobby ideas?

Photography:requires a digital camera and a computer.  If you already have the computer the camera can be purchased for under $100 dollars to get started.
Needle Work: very inexpensive to begin.
Rocketry: you can start this hobby with your child for under $25.
Gardening: can begin for under $10 and a trip to the library and can begin inside with pots or outside in the spring and summer.
Collecting: stamps, coins, old books, art almost anything.  How about old hood ornaments off old cars or even rocks? 
History: I have a friend that goes to Civil War Sites and maps out the area. 
Modeling: airplanes, boats, etc.
Aquarium/Terrarium
Playing an instrument like the Piano or guitar or Singing
Quilting

Keep in mind the younger your child the more likely they will want to experience a series of hobbies before they settle on one they love.   When I was in my teens I began Photography as a hobby.  I put it on hold as budgets and kids of my own came along and now I have renewed my hobby and actually have entered art shows and even sold some of the pictures I took in my teens.  It has been very rewarding.   Most people who know me are surprised that I “also do photography” and I think that is good.  Photography connects with a different part of my self. 

Help teach your child balance, possibly reduce TV and video time and help your child develop a hobby.  Something that helps better round them out, that gives them the opportunity to learn.  This Christmas may be a good time to introduce an unexpected gift. 

Sylvan Learning Center
Columbia or Jefferson City
800-EDUCATE
www.educate.com
www.stanleylearning.com