What’s Keeping Kids Engaged in 2023? Reddit Parents Share Their Observations
Parents on Reddit are always swapping stories about what their kids are into these days—the good, the messy, and the downright unexpected. From outdoor adventures to tech-driven hobbies, today’s kids are exploring interests that blend creativity, physical activity, and social connection. Let’s dive into the trends and timeless classics that are lighting up young imaginations.
1. Outdoor Adventures (With a Modern Twist)
Gone are the days of parents begging kids to “go play outside.” According to Reddit users, many children are rediscovering the joy of unstructured outdoor time—but with a few 21st-century upgrades.
– Geocaching: Think treasure hunting meets GPS. Families report that kids love the thrill of tracking down hidden caches using apps like Geocaching® or Adventure Lab. “My 10-year-old begs to go geocaching every weekend. It’s like Pokémon Go but in real life,” says u/NatureMom2023.
– Backyard Camping: Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, and stargaze—even if it’s just in the backyard. Parents say this low-stakes version of camping lets kids experience adventure without the stress of planning a big trip.
– DIY Obstacle Courses: Inspired by TikTok challenges, kids are building ninja-warrior-style courses using hula hoops, pool noodles, and jump ropes. “It keeps them active, and they get so creative with the designs,” shares u/DIY_DadLife.
2. Tech-Driven Creativity
Screen time doesn’t always mean passive scrolling. Many parents highlight hobbies where tech fuels creativity:
– Roblox Game Development: Kids aren’t just playing games—they’re designing them. Platforms like Roblox Studio allow even younger kids to code simple games. “My 12-year-old taught herself basic scripting. Now she’s obsessed with building virtual worlds,” says u/TechyDad89.
– YouTube Shorts & TikTok Skits: Forget Hollywood—backyards and living rooms are the new film studios. Families mention kids directing skits, stop-motion animations, or “life hacks” (often involving slime or pranks). “It’s chaotic, but seeing them collaborate on scripts is pretty cool,” admits u/ChaoticMomLife.
– 3D Printing: Affordable home printers are sparking interest in engineering. One parent, u/MakerMom_, shared: “My teen prints everything from custom phone cases to mini sculptures. It’s art meets problem-solving.”
3. Old-School Crafts (Revamped)
Nostalgic activities are back, often with a modern flair:
– DIY Bracelets: Friendship bracelets have evolved. Kids are using embroidery floss, beads, and even UV resin to create wearable art. “The resin stuff is messy, but they’re so proud of their ‘designer’ jewelry,” laughs u/CraftyHousehold.
– Loom Knitting: Remember the 2010s loom-knitting craze? It’s resurfacing, with kids making scarves, stuffed animals, and even sweaters for pets. “It’s oddly meditative for my anxious 14-year-old,” notes u/CalmParenting.
– Upcycled Art: Sustainability meets creativity. Families are turning bottle caps into mosaics, old T-shirts into tote bags, and cardboard boxes into mini cities.
4. Social & Collaborative Hobbies
After years of disrupted social lives, kids are leaning into group activities:
– Dungeons & Dragons (Yes, Really!): Tabletop RPGs aren’t just for adults. Parents say tweens and teens love the storytelling and teamwork involved. “My kid’s D&D club has more drama than a soap opera—in the best way,” jokes u/FantasyDad.
– Book Clubs: Forget silent reading—kids are forming clubs to dissect Wings of Fire, Percy Jackson, or manga series. Some even host themed snacks or crafts based on the books.
– Community Gardening: From school plots to neighborhood initiatives, gardening teaches patience and responsibility. “My 8-year-old proudly grows cherry tomatoes and insists we use them in salads,” says u/GreenThumbFamily.
5. The Rise of “Mini Experts”
Many kids are diving deep into niche interests, thanks to YouTube tutorials and online communities:
– Birdwatching: Apps like Merlin Bird ID help identify species, while kids document sightings in journals. “We’ve become the family that hikes with binoculars,” shares u/BirdingWithKids.
– Chess: The Queen’s Gambit effect lives on! Online platforms like Chess.com make it easy for kids to learn strategies and compete globally.
– Magic Tricks: Cardistry and illusions are having a moment. “My son practices sleight of hand daily. His poker face is better than mine,” laughs u/MagicDad.
6. Hybrid Learning & Play
Educational hobbies don’t have to feel like homework:
– Science Kits: Subscription boxes like KiwiCo or Mel Science let kids build volcanoes, grow crystals, or even dissect (synthetic) frogs. “It’s hands-on learning without the classroom pressure,” says u/ScienceFamily.
– Language Apps: Apps like Duolingo or Gus on the Go turn language learning into a game. One parent, u/GlobalMom, says her kids compete to earn the most “XP” in Spanish lessons.
– Coding Robots: Toys like Sphero or LEGO Mindstorms blend play with programming basics. “They don’t realize they’re learning—they just think they’re making a robot dance,” notes u/RobotParent.
7. The Return of “Slow Hobbies”
In a fast-paced world, some kids are embracing analog pastimes:
– Journaling: Bullet journals, sketch diaries, or “gratitude logs” help kids process emotions. “It’s become my teen’s nightly ritual—way better than doomscrolling,” says u/MindfulMom.
– Puzzles: Jigsaw puzzles, escape-room-style mystery boxes, and Rubik’s Cubes are back. Families mention working on 1,000-piece puzzles together during rainy weekends.
– Model Building: From Gundam kits to vintage car models, assembling tiny pieces requires focus and patience.
What’s Next? Letting Kids Lead
The biggest takeaway from Reddit parents? Letting kids explore their passions—even if it means tolerating glitter explosions or listening to endless Minecraft lore. As u/ChillDad123 puts it: “The best hobbies are the ones they choose themselves. My job is just to buy the glue sticks and step back.”
Whether it’s coding, crafting, or cloud-watching, today’s kids are proving that curiosity and play are timeless—no matter the decade.
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