With the social media ban for under-16s now in place, many families are navigating a new normal. Phones may still exist, but the endless scroll, constant notifications and pressure to stay online have eased. What’s filling that space matters.
This shift creates an opportunity. Teens now have more room for creativity, independence, movement and real-world connection. The activities below are designed to feel purposeful, achievable and age-appropriate, without relying on social media or constant screen time.
1. Natural fabric dyeing
Using leaves, bark, onion skins or avocado seeds, teens can experiment with colour and pattern while learning basic chemistry.
Guide: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-09-17/how-to-use-plants-to-dye-clothes-natural-dyeing/100400548
2. Stargazing
Learning the night sky builds patience and curiosity, especially when there’s nothing buzzing in a pocket.
Guide: https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/science-environment/space/2026/01/your-2026-stargazing-guide/
3. Creative writing or journaling
A notebook becomes a space for stories, ideas, sketches and reflection.
Prompts: https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/learning/inspiration-creative-writing
4. Start a veggie or herb garden
Fast-growing plants offer responsibility, routine and visible results.
Guide: https://www.bhg.com.au/how-to-start-a-vegetable-garden
5. Volunteer locally
Helping at events, clean-ups or community organisations builds confidence and connection.
Find opportunities: https://www.govolunteer.com.au/
6. Campfire or oven damper
Cooking from scratch encourages patience and practical skills.
Recipe:https://www.yarn.com.au/blogs/yarn-in-the-community/how-to-make-damper-with-wattleseed-and-saltbush?srsltid=AfmBOoq2vwdyx7Kig93mNmShywewpTKmFJjWdZGyAiVxeP
7. Home science experiments
Kitchen chemistry and simple experiments spark curiosity and critical thinking.
Activities: https://www.questacon.edu.au/learn-and-play/activities
8. Geocaching
A real-world treasure hunt combining navigation, problem solving and exploration.
Activity guide: https://geocaching.com.au/
A new normal
The social media ban has shifted daily habits, but it has also opened the door to healthier routines and stronger real-world skills. Offline does not mean disconnected. It means present, capable and engaged in ways that last well beyond the teenage years.
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