Question: My 15 year-old stepdaughter spends all her free time in front of a screen, either TV or computer. When I ask her to stop, she wants to know what else she can do? Do you have any suggestions?
Answer: First of all, congratulations on doing a great job and getting her to think that there is something else to do! Without knowing what her life is like specifically, I would suggest your stepdaughter find some kind of hobby or physical activity she can enjoy doing in her spare time. Whether it is playing an instrument, an artistic activity, dance or gym classes, even going for a walk. She may be able to find a friend to go along with her as she checks out some new activities, if not an adult in the house may join her if she isn’t interested in trying things on her own. Children this age can also get involved in the household chores in ways that can be more interesting than when they were younger. Teens can have a regular cooking night, go to the shops and run other errands that get them out of the house You may also consider having her go to the library or newsagency so there are interesting books and magazines on hand.
