Hobbies for teens​ to try

Simple hobbies that build confidence

Quick summary

• Hobbies give teens a fun, productive way to build confidence, independence, and creativity
• They support mental wellbeing by reducing stress, improving focus, and encouraging social connections
• Parents can help by suggesting activities, providing resources, and celebrating their teen’s efforts and achievements

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Sadly for teens, endlessly scrolling TikTok, binge-watching shows, or sharing the latest memes doesn’t really count as a hobby (even if they’d argue otherwise). 

Teens need something that sparks their curiosity, challenges their skills, or just makes them feel good about themselves.

Finding hobbies can feel tricky. Interests change weekly, and the pressure to “find your thing” can be real.

But hobbies aren’t just fun distractions; they can boost confidence, reduce stress, and even help your teen make new friends.

This guide is packed with practical, easy-to-start ideas that suit all kinds of personalities.

Plus, we’ll give you tips to spot when a hobby is really working its magic.

Why hobbies matter for teens

Hobbies aren’t just about staying busy; they play a big role in healthy development. 

Here’s why:

• Build confidence and encourage independence: trying new things helps teens believe in themselves
• Reduce stress and support emotional wellbeing: engaging in enjoyable activities gives their brains a break from schoolwork and social pressures
• Encourage creativity and self-expression: whether it’s drawing, writing, or coding, hobbies let teens explore ideas in a low-pressure way
• Develop discipline and routine: even a small hobby done regularly helps them practice focus and time management
• Create opportunities for new friendships: many hobbies, from clubs to classes, can connect teens with like-minded peers

60 good hobbies for teens​ 

Finding a hobby doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

Here are ideas to get your teen exploring new interests, whether they’re sporty, creative, or just curious:

Creative and artistic hobbies for teens:

• Drawing or painting
• Photography
• Crafting or DIY projects
• Music practice or songwriting
• Drama or theatre groups
• Colouring
• Creating mini comic books
• Model building or Book Nook kits
• Origami
• Journalism
• Jewellery making
• Nail art
• Scrapbooking

Active hobbies for teens:

• Walking or running
• Team sports
• Dance
• Yoga or gentle stretching
• Skating
• Rock climbing
• Weightlifting
• BMX riding
• Rollerskating
• Martial arts
• Swimming
• Trampolining 

Mind and skill-based hobbies:

• Coding or app-building
• Reading
• Science kits or experiments
• Chess or strategy games
• Puzzle books
• Astronomy
• Collecting crystals or houseplants

Social and group hobbies for teens

• Volunteering
• School clubs
• Debate teams
• Group classes or workshops
• Theatre groups
• Book clubs 
• Choir or singing groups
• Youth community groups

Food and nature hobbies for teens

• Baking
• Gardening
• Exploring recipes or meal planning
• Sensory or nature journaling
• Hiking
• Growing fruits and veggies
• DIY terrariums 
• Making herbal teas or simple preserves

Cheap hobbies for teens​:

• Writing stories, poetry, or journaling
• Reading library books or e-books
• Walking, jogging, or running outside
• DIY crafts using household items
• Learning a language with free apps
• Birdwatching or nature spotting
• Puzzle books or crosswords
• Plane watching 
• Photography with a phone
• Making friendship bracelets
• Upcycling old clothes or items
• Sketching and doodling

Signs a hobby is helping your teen

Not sure if that new hobby is actually doing any good? 

Keep an eye out for these positive changes:

• Brighter mood: they seem happier or more relaxed after spending time on it
• Better focus: homework, chores, or school projects may suddenly get a bit easier
• Boosted confidence: they take pride in what they create or achieve, no matter how small
• Less screen time: you might notice they’re naturally spending less time on their phone or tablet
• More adventurous: they’re willing to try new activities or challenge themselves in ways they hadn’t before

Even small shifts in these areas can signal that the hobby is helping your teen grow in confidence, independence, and focus.

Helping your teen thrive through hobbies

Hobbies are a great way to help teens grow emotionally, socially, and creatively. Even simple, everyday activities can make a big difference in mood, focus, and self-esteem.

As a parent, encouraging your teen to explore hobbies, cheering them on, and giving them space to try new things make the experience fun rather than stressful.

With a bit of guidance and a lot of encouragement, you can help your teen discover activities that stick.