Everyone needs hobbies—especially kids! Hobbies help keep children occupied and engaged, but they can also help them grow as individuals and improve their social and creative skills. 

What’s more, introducing new hobbies can also spark lifelong passions or even future careers. These activities can allow children to express themselves, build self-esteem, learn patience, and even solve problems.

And let’s not forget: hobbies can be a lot of fun!

What hobbies are popular with children?

Arts and crafts

Activities like drawing, painting, scrapbooking, or crocheting fuel kids’ imagination.

Collecting

Organizing things like stamps, rocks, sea shells, coins, etc. builds kids’ cognitive skills.

Nature and science

Activities like gardening, birdwatching, or stargazing combine learning with fun.

Performance

Dancing, playing an instrument, or doing sports empowers children to express themselves.

4 ways to help your child find a hobby 

One of the simplest ways to foster new hobbies for kids is to set an example. Let them hang out with you as you pursue your own passions! After all, children with hobbies often start by following in the footsteps of the grownups around them. 

1. Ask your child about the things that make them feel good about themselves. 

• Do they like being with other kids?
• Are they happiest when playing games?

2. Give kids the freedom to explore and express their passions.

• Sometimes your child might need to try out a few different activities until they find one they really enjoy.

3. Introduce them to new things on a regular basis.

• Visit kids’ museums and family-friendly events in your neighborhood.
• Listen to platforms like the Lingokids Growin’ Up podcast.

4. Navigate when it’s time to let your child move on to a new interest. 

• Not all hobbies are meant to last forever! 

Be available to guide, support, and encourage your child. Hobbies can be an opportunity to teach strong work ethics—like setting goals, planning, and time management.

You can demonstrate the importance of committing to a new hobby. It takes about 21 days to create a new habit; perhaps your family can try a new hobby together. 

Hobbies for Kids and Lingokids

For more tips on igniting your child’s imagination, tune into the Lingokids Growin’ Up podcast. In each episode, our host Emily Calandrelli interviews professionals from around the world to spark kids’ imaginations and inspire them to explore their own hobbies. Available anywhere you listen to your podcasts: Apple, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon. 

Interested in learning more about Lingokids? Download the app and check out more content on our YouTube channels.

What is your child’s favorite hobby? Let us know by tagging us on social media!