Kids just don’t have fun like they used. It’s hard to find a kid these days who does more than sit on the couch and watch TV or play video games incessantly. The technology age has really put a damper on hobbies and interests in general. Kids are always bored because they haven’t had time to cultivate any other skills. It really is terrible if you think about it. So why not give your kid a little nudge in the other direction? Give him or her the opportunity to develop a passion, an interest in something beyond their touch screen cell phone? Check below for some great hobby suggestions.

1. Painting. Every child deserves the chance to try and develop their artistic abilities. That’s why it’s important that you facilitate the artistic process. So buy your son or daughter a wooden easel , some paint and some paintbrushes. Let them have at it. You never know, with a little practice they might be incredibly talented.
2. Dancing. Enroll your son or daughter in some dancing classes. It’s not only a great way to stay in shape, but he or she will learn skills that they can use later in life.
3. Paintball. This is best for teenagers and not younger children. It’s a great competitive sport that most kids will love. It will also be a great way to keep your child alert and fit. It’s also a very social activity, so they can invite their friends along.
4. Reading. It can be really hard to get your child to read outside of their homework activities, but it is a really great way to prepare them for college, as well increase their vocabulary and creativity. An easy way to push them to read more is to give them a book allowance every other week. This get to at least check out the bookstore and try to find a topic that interests them.
5. Cycling. Before you spend loads of cash on an expensive road bike, make sure that your son or daughter has some interest. But this can be a really fun hobby for any child, especially teenagers. With everyone focusing on going green these days, it will be an environmentally conscious hobby that will also promote physical fitness.

If your goal is to get you child off the couch, then you’ve got to be creative. There are simply far to many technological distractions these days. Its best if you facilitate a hobby early on in their development rather than waiting until they are sixteen, but even if they are older, don’t give up hope. Just try to find a hobby that they can enjoy well into adulthood.