Anywhere north of 15-years-old, and your kid might as well be an alien. The good news is, though, that it’s ultimately just a phase. You remember being a teenager – in addition to the confusing rush of new hormones and emotions, you have the social hierarchy at school to deal with. You have homework, your first job, your new crush, your looming college application… It’s a lot to handle!
So, when a birthday rolls around, there’s a lot going on in your teenager’s brain. They want something that’s fun, but not too lame, something that’s exciting but still chill. What are you, as a parent, supposed to do?
Never fear! Here are a few fun birthday party ideas perfect for your teen!
Try Axe Throwing
Perhaps not for the younger tweens in your family, axe throwing is nevertheless the perfect activity for older teens. What could be better for your teen – have fun axe throwing with your friends and enjoy some snacks and drinks!
The game is pretty simple. After a safety demonstration and technique tutorial from an expert axe thrower, you get to take turns throwing axes at a wooden target. It’s like darts, but with a weapon! Not only is it exhilarating in a very “adult” way, but it’s also perfect for Instagram. All those pictures of your teen proudly holding up an axe are definitely going to make it onto their IG story.
Go Camping in the Great Outdoors
Camping is fun no matter how old you are. Take a vehicle out to a remote spot, pitch a few tents, light a roaring fire (bylaws permitting, of course), and just soak in the great outdoors.
The great thing about camping – the thing that really speaks to a teenager – is that it’s a taste of independence. They get to flex their survival skills, as well as their self-care skills. There’s no one there to cook them food or clean up after them, and there’s no computer to keep them entertained. Whether you choose to chaperone the camping trip is ultimately up to you – it depends on their age, and how much you trust them.
Make a Splash with a Pool Party
Teens love a pool. Whether splashing around with their friends, sunning themselves at the poolside or enjoying some chips and pop nearby, a pool party is endless fun. This idea obviously works better in the summer months, when access to an outdoor pool is much easier, but if your teen is fine with an indoor pool, you have one any time of year.
You’ll want to run this idea by your teen in advance, though. Some teens that age (any age, really) aren’t exactly comfortable with their body yet, and that’s okay.
Throw a Decade-Themed Dance Party
This idea is as fun for the adults as it is for the teens. Throw a 70s, 80s or 90s themed dance party, complete with period appropriate clothing and decorations. If it’s the 80s, throw on some Run DMC or Madonna jams, encourage everyone to wear their brightest neon spandex and decorate the dance floor with streamers, balloons and lights.
Your teen may be getting older, but they aren’t too old for an awesome birthday party. Throw them the party they really want with one of these four ideas.
