Do you know teens who say they’re bored? Have them check out 10 newly created programs and one-day special events for preteens and teens, ages 11 to 15 years old, being presented by the Homewood-Flossmoor Park District.
Registration information is on the park district website at hfparks.com. For more information, call 708-957-0300.
Thoughtful Treasures — DIY Gift Workshop has kids do hands-on crafts that will be perfect for friends, family and even themselves. Supplies and guidance will be provided for projects such as clay magnets, photo holders, clay jewelry dishes and more. This program for 12- to 15-year-olds meets from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, in the Irwin Center Art Room. The fee is between $65 and $80. Registration deadline is Dec. 3.
Take a trip Dec. 22 and hit the slopes for a snow tubing trip, dependent on weather conditions. Dress for outdoor activities and catch the bus at Irwin Center at 9:30 a.m. returning around 3 p.m. The cost is between $70 and $85. Registration is open to 12- to 15-year-olds and the deadline is Dec. 15.
While you’re on break, consider volunteering. On Monday, Dec. 29, from 1 to 4 p.m. participants will complete projects in-house at the Irwin Center. On Tuesday, Dec 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. kids will load up and drop off their projects at the South Suburban Humane Society and the Cancer Support Center in Homewood. The fee is between $40 and $50. Register by Dec. 22.
Beyond the Book lets readers discuss a great book and develop activities based on the book’s themes. The session meets from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays, Jan. 3 through 31. This program is for 12- to 15-year-olds and meeting at Park Place at Flossmoor Park. The fee is between $55 and $70. Registration closes Dec. 28.
A day of fun at games, anyone? A game arcade trip for 12- to 15-year-olds is planned for Monday, Jan. 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Game Hollywood Park in Crestwood. The fee between $65 and $80 includes the ride to the park, play credits for games and some of the amusements, and pizza. Register by Jan. 7.
How about sprucing up your space? On Thursday, Jan. 22, from 5 to 6:30 p.m., participants ages 12 to 15 will get to design and create custom room décor pieces that reflect their personal style, such as wall art, mini signs and decorative accents. The fee is $65 to $80. The program meets at the Irwin Center Art Room. Registration closes Jan. 8.
Bring your best friend with you to Galentine’s Glow Up, a chance for girls 12 to 15 years old to spend time on self-love from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7. Enjoy facials, skin and hair care tips and more. The fee is between $60 and $75. Register by Jan. 26.
Time to make your own pizza during a Feb. 9 trip to Billy Bricks Pizza in LaGrange. Kids will learn how to roll out and stretch dough for the pizza, top the pizza and bake it in the oven. The $65 to $80 fee covers the cost of the pizza, soda and ice cream and transportation. Register by Jan. 26.
On Feb. 20, it’s a night to treat yourself. Come to the Irwin Center to relax and recharge. This is a chill night for spa time, snacks and self-care, DIY face masks, relaxing crafts and more. The 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. event for 12- to 15-year-olds is giving them a chance to unwind or hang out with friends. The fee is $60 to $75. Register by Feb. 10.
Chop It Like It’s Hot meets at 5 p.m. Mondays, Feb. 16 through March 2, at the Irwin Center in Homewood. Kids ages 11 to 15 team up in the kitchen to create a meal using a basket full of mystery ingredients. The fee is between $60 and $75. Register by Feb. 9.


