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Don't Let Your Teenagers Become Couch Potatoes: Fun Summer Activity's

Engage, Energize, and Enjoy: Keeping Teens Active and Happy All Summer Long!

By Samantha Jess Quinlan June 20, 2024

 Hey Southern Indiana families! Are your teenagers turning into couch potatoes this summer? Well, it’s time to shake things up! As a mom of two teenagers who would love nothing more than to sleep and do a whole lot of nothing all day, I know the struggle. But guess what? We’ve got some awesome, fun, and FREE activities right in our area to get them moving and grooving. Let’s dive into some great options to keep your teens active and happy this summer!

GIVE YOUR SUMMER AN ENERGY BOOST!

High School Summer Pass™ at Planet Fitness

Did you know Planet Fitness is offering an amazing deal for teens this summer? Since the High School Summer Pass™ program began, Planet Fitness has invested over $200 million in waived membership dues to promote youth health and wellness.

Now through August 31st, teens ages 14-19 can work out for FREE! This is a fantastic opportunity for your teens to stay active, meet new friends, and develop healthy habits. So, don't wait—register now and let them enjoy a summer of fitness fun!

Cultural Pass

Starting June 1st, Cultural Passes will be available for pickup at all library locations. The 2024 Cultural Pass, presented in partnership with Metro Louisville, the Louisville Free Public Library, Arts and Culture Alliance, and the Fund for the Arts, allows children and young adults up to age 21 to visit more than 40 arts and cultural venues for FREE! Plus, Cultural Pass holders 15 years old and younger can bring one accompanying adult for free.

This is a fantastic way for your family to explore museums, theaters, and more without spending a dime. Visit fundforthearts.org/culturalpass/ for more details and get ready for a summer full of discovery!

The Depot

Looking for a cool hangout spot for your teens? Check out The Depot in Charlestown! Planned with the input of local students, The Depot features a variety of board games and yard games like table tennis, shuffleboard, corn hole, and trash pong. There's also a stage area for live events, a TV for movies, sporting events, and video games on Xbox One and PS4.

The Depot is ADA accessible, making it a welcoming space for everyone. For more info, head over to charlestownparks.com/thedepot.

Teen Scene at the Floyd County Library

The Floyd County Library’s Teen Scene program is perfect for teens interested in art, games, and more. They offer classes in art, game nights, and even Dungeons and Dragons sessions. This is a fantastic way for teens to explore their creative side, have fun, and make new friends. The Teen Scene is all about engaging activities that keep teens entertained and inspired.

TeenStage Programs

Welcome to the TeenStage webpage Teens - Jeffersonville Township Public Library (jefflibrary.org) ! We have a lot of great programs all year long, including some awesome monthly clubs. Make sure to check out the online calendar for all the details about these and other teen events. Teen events are for youth in grades 6 – 12.

JTPL Anime Club (Jeffersonville)

Interested in anime? Come meet other teens who love it too! Whether you're a hardcore anime fan or just starting to explore, all are welcome. We watch episodes, discuss conventions and cosplay, play Anime Trivia, and more—plus, there are snacks! Click here to see when the next Anime Club meeting will be!

Dungeons & Dragons @ the Library (Jeffersonville)

Ready for some epic role-play? Teens in grades 6 – 12 can join us to play the latest version of Dungeons & Dragons. New and experienced players are welcome, and each session offers a fun, episodic adventure! Click here to see when the next Dungeons & Dragons program will be! SignUp | Demco Software (evanced.info)

That Teen Thing (Clarksville)

This monthly program alternates with the Clarksville Library and features different themes each time, including crafts, games, speakers, and more. It's a great way for teens to try new things and have fun with friends.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering is a wonderful way for teens to stay active and give back to the community. There are countless opportunities to match their interests. For example, my kids are helping out at our local Vacation Bible School (VBS). 

One of my favorite charities, the Mustard Seed, is looking for volunteers this summer to help with tasks like hanging clothes and setting out housewares. Volunteering teaches valuable life skills and fosters a sense of responsibility and compassion. If interested, fill out their volunteer form here.

So Southern Indiana families, let’s keep our teenagers from turning into couch potatoes. With these free and inexpensive programs, your teens can make the most of their summer while staying healthy and engaged. Let’s get moving and grooving for a fantastic, active summer!