By: Jamie Foster
Updated: Oct. 21, 2020
Originally Published: Jan. 10, 2020
When the long breaks of winter and summer roll around, finding ways to entertain your teenagers can be quite the challenge. They’ve outgrown toys, aren’t quite ready for jobs, and are often glued to their screens. So, what can you do to keep them engaged? Whether hosting a family game night, welcoming a few friends, or throwing a birthday bash, there are plenty of entertaining options. Consider introducing games like “Minute to Win It” or testing their knowledge with “Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?” While we can’t help you understand the latest slang, we can equip you with a variety of fun activities that will have your teens laughing instead of groaning.
1. Truth or Dare
A classic game that encourages openness, Truth or Dare is best played among friends. It can deepen connections but be mindful of the dares you allow. Have a list of suggestions ready to help if they need inspiration (or give it to your teen to use discreetly).
2. Never Have I Ever
This game can be adapted for a candy twist! Each teen receives some candies, and they take turns sharing something they’ve never done. If others have done that activity, they lose a piece of candy. Expect some surprising revelations when they think they’re alone!
3. Would You Rather
This game sparks imaginative and often hilarious scenarios. For instance, “Would you rather fight ten duck-sized horses or one horse-sized duck?” gets the conversation flowing.
4. Two Truths and a Lie
Players share two true statements and one falsehood about themselves, while others guess which statement is the lie. This game can lead to surprising revelations and fun discussions.
5. Who Am I?
In this guessing game, players write down the names of celebrities or notable figures and stick them to others’ foreheads. They must ask yes or no questions to figure out who they are.
6. Spoons
This fast-paced game involves a bit of physicality as players race to grab spoons from the center of the table. It’s a great way to create a lively atmosphere.
7. Wink Assassin
Gather everyone in a circle with their eyes shut while one person is selected as the assassin. They will wink at others to eliminate them, while detectives try to figure out the assassin’s identity.
8. Honey, If You Love Me
This light-hearted game involves one person trying to make others smile by asking, “Honey, if you love me won’t you please just smile?” If they succeed, the person smiles and becomes “it.”
9. Orange War
Two players each hold a spoon with an orange on it. They must try to knock the other player’s orange off without using their hands. The last one with their orange wins.
10. Human Pretzel
In this team-building game, teens stand in a circle and hold hands with two others, but not those directly next to them. The challenge is to untangle without letting go.
11. I Went To Camp and I Brought…
Starting with one item, each player repeats the previous items while adding their own. Variations can include following the alphabet or increasing syllable counts.
12. Medusa
Players bow their heads and, on the count of three, lift them. If two players lock eyes, they must scream and play dead, continuing until only two players are left.
These games can help bridge the gap between fun and connection, giving you a chance to engage with your teens meaningfully. For more tips on keeping the family entertained, consider exploring resources like Progyny, which offers valuable insights into family planning and pregnancy. And don’t forget to check out this post for more innovative ideas that can help you navigate parenting during those tricky teenage years.
Summary
Discover engaging indoor games that will keep your teens entertained during breaks, from classics like Truth or Dare to creative twists on traditional games. These activities promote connection and laughter, ensuring a fun time for everyone.
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