Spring Break Ideas for Teens at Home

When teens think of spring break they think of trips away from home with families or perhaps with friends. With the tough economy, money is tight so teenagers and their family will have to find cheaper ways to enjoy spring break.

Here are some ways teens can enjoy their spring break at home. You'll have a fun and productive staycation.

Do an art project. If you're a teen or have a teen that is creative, consider taking on an art project. Get some paint and a canvas or a camera and explore your creative side. Have a contest with your friends to see who can come up with the most brilliant masterpiece. Go to www.crafts.kaboose.com/crafts-for-teens.html for art project ideas.

Babysit. While babysitting might not be the most exciting way to spend spring break, you can line your wallet with some extra cash. There may be a parent in your neighborhood that could use a break on costly daycare. They could leave their child in your care for a couple days that week. Take a class in first aid and CPR to be prepared for emergencies. Visit www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/Babysitting/ for babysitting tips.

Catch up on school work. Dedicate some time during spring break to catch up on some school work. You'll return to school better prepared for classes.

Have a sleepover. Teens have busy lives and aren't always able to spend quality time with each other. Have your friends over for a visit. You can stay up gossiping, watching movies and eat pizza-whatever you and your friends like to do. Spring break might not be all that exciting this year, but you don't have to spend it alone. Check out www.widdlykinks.com for sleepover themes.

Act as neighborhood watch. In a down economy crime is more prevalent, especially home robbery. Serve as the eyes and ears of the neighborhood by periodically looking over your street from an upstairs window. Call emergency at any sign of trouble. You'll feel good that you're looking out for your neighbors.

Bake some goodies. Get some cookie dough and cake mix and make a feast of baked goodies to enjoy as you relax on the couch during spring break. Find some good recipes here: www.joyofbaking.com.

Improve your MySpace of Facebook page. Choose a new MySpace layout or add a few more features to your Facebook page. You'll have the time to make it look great. Check out www.freecodesource.com/ for myspace layouts.

Clean your room. If you're a busy teen, you may not have the cleanest room. During spring break take some time to declutter your room. You may even want to redecorate.

Start a YouTube video blog. If you've got something to say, you can share it with the world through a YouTube blog. Get your camera, create a theme for your blog and voice your opinions. You can head to YouTube here: www.youtube.com.

Have a party. There are a number of themed parties you could have with your friends during spring break. Since spring is approaching consider a lighthearted Hawaiian theme to usher in the good weather.