Best Resources for Summer Planning with a 13 YO: Parents Swap Activity Ideas
As summer approaches, Conway parents are gearing up for the challenge of keeping their teens active, engaged, and off their screens. One local parent took to Facebook with a relatable plea:
“What are your best resources or ideas for summer planning with a 13-year-old?”
The post struck a chord, and replies came flooding in — offering a wide range of suggestions for camps, volunteering, sports, and creative outlets tailored to teens who are in that “in-between” stage of youth.
🎨 Arts, Creativity & Expression
Several parents recommended the Conway Art Walk and classes offered through the Conway League of Artists for hands-on creative engagement. Others suggested enrolling in workshops at the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub in nearby North Little Rock for things like screen printing, robotics, or digital art.
“It’s a great age to let them explore new interests, especially ones they don’t get in school,” said one parent.
🏀 Sports, Fitness & Adventure
For physical activity, suggestions included:
- Conway Parks & Rec Summer Camps (Official site)
- Community Tennis at Laurel Park
- Youth martial arts or boxing at The Hit Fit Gym
- Swimming at the Conway Aquatic Center
“I signed my teen up for the summer basketball league at Don Owen — it’s a good way to keep structure and movement in the mix.”
đź“š Educational & Skill-Based Programs
If your 13-year-old has academic goals or special interests, Conway offers:
- Teen Summer Reading Program at Faulkner County Library
- Coding and STEM Camps via UCA’s Community Education programs
- Chess, Debate, or Writing Clubs (often hosted through the library or UCA youth outreach)
🤝 Volunteering & Leadership
Many parents noted that age 13 is a perfect time to get teens involved in giving back. Opportunities include:
- Helping at the Humane Society of Faulkner County (Volunteer info)
- Library teen volunteers (shelving books, helping with events)
- Church youth groups organizing service projects
One parent shared:
“We had our daughter help at the animal shelter once a week — she loved it, and it gave her a sense of purpose.”
🍿 Just for Fun
Sometimes, teens just need a social outlet. Popular local picks included:
- Bowling at Conway Family Bowl
- Skating at Jack’s Ultra Sports
- Arcade and escape rooms at Urban Air Adventure Park
đź’ˇ Apps & Local Calendars to Watch
Parents recommended bookmarking a few resources:
🗣️ Community-Approved Advice
The consensus? Don’t overschedule — but do offer a mix of structured and free time.
“At 13, they’re old enough to have a say in how their summer looks. Give them options and let them help plan it out.”