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Outing ideas to help kids build their independence — and possibly set down their phones for a minute.
Independent adventure time
What do teens and tweens always want to do? Hang out in groups with friends — without any pesky parents around. Their desire for freedom sometimes feels like it bumps up against our desire for their safety, but finding a middle ground is key. Here are some ideas for things teens and tweens can do around Seattle to have fun while flexing their independence. And maybe take a little break from screens as well.
Remember, you know your kid best, and every child matures and is ready to handle increasing responsibilities at different ages. If these ideas feel like too much, too soon, there might be a way to find a compromise. Does dropping them off (or encouraging use of public transportation, now free for all riders ages 18 and younger in Washington) feel like too much? Instead, you could drive them somewhere and wait in the car with a good book (my mom’s go-to move when I was a kid). Some time alone to just sit and read? Sign me up!
Try running these ideas past your kid today and see if it gets them to take out at least one earbud.
First up: Gaming, IRL
