Hi friend!
Summer break is almost here — and if you have a teen at home, you already know that "I'm bored" is basically a full-time job from June through August.
This week I'm rounding up some of my favorite ways to keep older kids actually engaged this summer. We're talking jobs, programs, and experiences that look great on a resume and get them out of the house. Win-win.
And bonus — some of the best options are completely free and right here in Plano. The library has been quietly building an incredible teen program lineup this summer, and I don't want you to miss the registration window.
Hit reply and tell me — does your teen have summer plans sorted, or are you still figuring it out? I'd love to know what's working for your family.
xoxo, Abbie
Don't Sleep on These Teen Summer Opportunities
Summer is the best time for teens to explore something new — whether that's a future career, a creative skill, or just figuring out what they're actually interested in. Here are some of the best options around Plano right now.
Free Programs at Plano Public Library
The library is seriously stepping up for teens this summer — and a few of these registration windows are already open.
- Youth Entrepreneurship Academy(Grades 9–12) — A 3-day program in June for teens who want to learn how to build and pitch a business idea. Practical, real-world, and completely free. Registration is open now.
- Career Quest(Grades 9–12) — Helps high schoolers explore careers and figure out what direction they actually want to go. Ideal for teens who are starting to think about college and beyond. Registration is open now.
- Teens Write Now(Grades 6–12) — A creative writing program for teens who love storytelling. Great for building confidence and a skill they'll use forever. Registration opens May 26.
To find and register for all three programs, head to planolibrary.org — click the calendar icon and filter for June. Spots fill up fast, so don't wait.
Summer Jobs & Ways to Earn
If your teen is ready to work, Plano and the surrounding area have solid options — from lifeguarding at city pools to working retail at Legacy West and the Shops at Willow Bend, to babysitting and pet-sitting in the neighborhood. The city of Plano also hires teen counselors for summer recreation programs.
See our full teen summer guide
Keep Them Active
Summer slide is real — for the body and the brain. Local options worth looking into: tennis lessons through Plano Parks & Rec, open gyms at local rec centers, and volunteer opportunities through Plano ISD and local nonprofits (which also look great on college apps).
What's your teen doing this summer? I'm always looking for ideas to add to the list — hit reply and let me know!
xoxo, Abbie
