Written by Sally, Teen Volunteer.
Halifax Public Libraries' Teen Blog is written by and for teens. Discover more posts here., opens a new window
This past year has come with its fair share of challenges, and as another summer during a pandemic is upon us, I'm hopeful that we will be able to do some of our "normal" activities soon. But in the meantime, I have various fun ideas that can be done safely both indoors and out.
Here is a list of my top 10 must-try ideas!
Outdoor fun
Summer is a great time to be outside enjoying the nice weather—whether that be on your own, with your family, or socially distanced with friends (if possible).
1. Go on a walk
This seems simple, but it can be a perfect way to catch up with someone while on a nice evening walk and a great way to get in some exercise.
2. Have a picnic
A good picnic can include almost anything, and bringing a blanket of some kind will make it super comfortable outside—all that's left to do is bring some yummy treats.
3. Try growing your own food
Not only is this super useful, but gardening is a relaxing way to pass the time. Get your family involved and try growing vegetables or some plants together.
Indoor activities
On the days when it's raining or too hot to be outside, there are plenty of things that can be done inside.
4. Pick up a new hobby
This can include just about anything. Try playing an instrument, writing, reading, baking, or crafting just to name a few.
5. Board/card games
Games like these are a great way to spend more time with your family. There are so many possible games to play, ranging from Monopoly to go fish.
6. Pick up a new book
Halifax Public Libraries has apps such as Libby, opens a new window and hoopla, opens a new window where you can find a variety of eBooks and audiobooks to borrow. It's a great way to find your new favourite book without having to leave your house.
7. At-home workouts
There are a lot of fun videos on YouTube to get you up and moving—which can be done both indoors and outdoors. Also, try having a dance party with your family by watching some tutorials online.
Virtual hangouts
There are many ways you can still hang out with your friends even if you are stuck at home. Now that there are multiple platforms available to chat with people virtually (Zoom, opens a new window, Google Meet, Facetime, etc.), the possibilities are endless with new ways of having fun.
8. Paint night
This is a fun idea that includes some canvases (or paper) and some paintbrushes. Try painting the same thing as your friends, or just do your own thing while being able to chat. Anyone can also turn their cameras around to hold up their painting and show their progress.
An additional add-on to this could include someone sharing their screen to give a painting tutorial so that everyone could follow along.
9. Virtual games
There are multiple fun games online that can be played virtually—one of these being Words with Friends. In this game, players are matched up to each other so pairs of friends can play together. But you can also turn it into a tournament to include multiple friends.
Other multiple-player games include Charades or Pictionary. Someone can share their screen and use an app to draw their picture (Jamboard is a great option so that everyone can be on at once).
10. Watch movies or TV shows
You may have already been doing this on your own at home, but it is especially fun when you can react with your friends in real-time. Have someone share their screen and play the movie or have everyone mute their mics and play the movie at the same time, unmuting to share any thoughts.
The Library's movie streaming platform, Kanopy,, opens a new window offers a wide range of independent films, classic cinema, documentaries, educational videos, and foreign films. Thousands of titles are waiting for you to stream, for free, on your favourite device.
My thoughts
Try to find new ways to enjoy your summer! If you're interested in taking part in the TD Summer Reading Club check out the Library's website TD Summer Reading Club, opens a new window for more details.
Be creative—there are so many more ideas out there than the ones I’ve suggested. Just because we are still in a pandemic does not mean that our summer has to be boring. Have fun, and most importantly, stay safe.
About the writer
My name is Sally. I am 17 years old and in grade 11. My hobbies include reading, playing violin, and of course, writing stories. It has become one of my favourite hobbies over the past year.
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