Quality teen time

How can we spend our quality time?

The second favourite choice for spending quality time was to go on a family holiday. This can be one of the most effective ways to engage with your teen in a fun and relaxing setting away from the distractions of normal daily life. What's more, you'll return home with shared memories to cherish (hopefully) forever.

If you're looking for something slightly less expensive and time-consuming than a holiday, plan a day trip instead. Day trips were cited by more teenagers than parents in the survey as a good way to spend quality time. Unsurprisingly, more teens than parents also said that they'd like to go to a theme park. But if the thought of rollercoasters and long queues leave you feeling queasy, perhaps consider a day out to another town or city, going shopping or catching a movie at the cinema instead.

If you've got a sporty teen, try taking part in physical activity with them. Whatever it takes to get your blood pumping and having fun will be well worth it, although if you're rather athletically-challenged try something a bit more sedate, like bowling. Also, energetic and inquisitive teens often enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping, so why not put yourself to the challenge and see where the spirit of adventure takes you both?

But don't worry if the thought of such exertion makes either of you break out in a cold sweat; time spent one-on-one at home just enjoying each other's company can be equally — if not more — valuable as any other.

How to make quality time count

• Discuss your ideas and remain open to your teen's suggestions
• Be as flexible as possible with the time you have available
• Don't nag while spending quality time together
• Be a bit adventurous
• Have fun!

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