When I hear, "There’s nothing for teens to do", it always gets my attention. There is so much for teens to do, from organized activities to self directed fun, with just a little searching!
Let’s start with the obvious -sports. Sports come in all sizes – structured, recreational, camps, drop-in, or competitive teams. Parks and Recreation leagues, non-profit programs, private clubs, and schools offer Novato teens a rich variety of options, including lacrosse, soccer, futsol, volleyball, swimming, tennis, basketball, flag football, football, baseball, softball and more. Facilities in local parks support basketball, tennis, roller-hockey, and, in Novato’s skate park, skateboarding. Not your thing?
Outdoor opportunities are just steps away. Bicycling in designated open space, along streets, and in parks is a great option. Hiking Novato trails takes you along creeks, up mountains, past horses - all within city limits. Novato parks provide picnic areas to socialize with friends, meet for lunch, read a book, or throw a frisbee. Simply walking the family dog, or enjoying Dogbone Meadow’s off-leash dog park, reconnects teens to the outdoors, and to your canine.
Too hot outside? Head to Hamilton Pool! It’s a beautiful swimming pool, with picnic and BBQ areas. Prefer staying inside, learning something new? Visit the City’s two museums, one downtown and one at Hamilton, or visit the local library - teens are always welcome. Novato Parks and Recreation offers programs for teens to learn new skills or improve their health or academic performance. There are art and performing arts classes, dance and fitness programs. No appeal?
Volunteering might be the solution. Help a local service club with a community project, or join the Novato Blue Ribbon Coalition for Youth, and become involved in issues and topics that affect youth. Check out this Activity Guide to learn all about what there is for teens to do!