Tweens are in that magical, slightly awkward phase between childhood and full-on teenhood. It’s a time of discovery—figuring out who they are, what they like, and, let’s be honest, what they don’t like (probably homework). It’s also when friendships start to mean the world to them, and the right activities can help them flourish in ways that will stick with them for a lifetime.

Why Friendships Are So Important for Tweens

At this age, friendships mean the world to tweens. Whether it’s sharing laughs over silly jokes, helping each other through tricky situations, or just having someone to sit with at lunch, friends play a key role in their lives.

Good friendships help tweens feel confident, teach them how to communicate, and provide a safe space for navigating life’s ups and downs. They’re also great practice for building empathy and handling disagreements—skills that will stick with them for a lifetime.

Having strong, positive connections makes the challenges of growing up a little easier and a lot more fun. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t feel better with a good friend by their side?

Group Activities: Where Life Skills Meet Fun

Think back to your favourite team game or creative project as a child. Group activities—like sports, STEM workshops, or drama club—are where tweens can flex those teamwork muscles without it feeling like a chore.

It’s not just about learning new skills (though they definitely will). It’s about working together toward a shared goal, tackling challenges as a team, and cheering each other on. These moments don’t just create memories; they also build resilience and teach children how to handle both wins and losses gracefully.

Let’s Get Creative: The Magic of Self-Expression

Whether they’re doodling in a sketchbook, strumming a guitar, or improvising a scene in drama class, tweens find so much joy in creative outlets. It’s more than just fun—it’s a way for them to say, This is me!

Creative activities let tweens express thoughts and feelings they might not have the words for yet. They also build confidence, boost emotional health, and give them something to be proud of. Who knows? That pottery class might just be the start of a lifelong passion or even a future career.

How Outdoor Activities Help Tweens Thrive

There’s nothing like a good old-fashioned outdoor adventure to shake off the screen-time blues. Whether it’s soccer, hiking, or just a game of tag, getting outside is a game-changer for tweens.

Fresh air, physical activity, and a break from the routine work wonders for their mood, stress levels, and overall health. Plus, outdoor adventures teach problem-solving, teamwork, and an appreciation for nature—all while letting them burn off some of that endless energy. (Parents, you’re welcome.)

Safe Spaces: The Tween Zone

Tweens need more than just a fun activity—they need places where they feel heard, supported, and free to be themselves. These safe spaces could be a club, a community group, or even just a corner of home where they can let their guard down.

In these environments, they learn to open up about their feelings, build coping skills, and strengthen their emotional intelligence. And when caring mentors are part of the mix, it’s like having a personal cheerleader rooting for them every step of the way.

Building Confidence, One Challenge at a Time

Let’s face it—life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, even for tweens. But with the right tools, they can learn to tackle challenges head-on. Activities that teach problem-solving, decision-making, and resilience are like secret superpowers for navigating life’s hurdles.

By practising these skills in fun, low-pressure environments, tweens gain the confidence to handle whatever comes their way. And when they succeed? The look on their face says it all: I’ve got this.

How WAYS Makes It All Happen

At WAYS, we know tweens are full of potential—and we’re here to help them shine. Our programs are all about friendship, fun, and growth. From creative workshops to outdoor adventures, we create safe, inclusive spaces where tweens can explore their interests, make meaningful connections, and build skills for life.

Every activity is designed with their wellbeing in mind, giving them the tools they need to thrive in school and beyond. Because at the end of the day, happy, confident tweens grow into happy, capable adults—and we think that’s pretty awesome.

So, let’s celebrate the tween years for what they are: a time to explore, grow, and have a little (or a lot of) fun along the way.

Need more information about supporting your tween?

If you’re looking for ways to help your tween build confidence, form friendships, and explore new opportunities, WAYS can help. Visit our contact page to learn more about our programs and how we can support your family. Together, we can create a brighter future for your child.

What's On at WAYS

WAYS Secondary is at Bondi Beach from 9:30am - 3:15pm during school terms.

WAYS Youth Training provides vocational training (Certificate II, III, IV & Diplomas) every day from 09:00am - 3:30pm at Bondi Junction.

WAYS OOSH (After school care) is open every day from 3:00pm - 6:30pm during school terms.

WAYS OOSH (vacation care) is open every day from 08:00am - 6:00pm during school holidays. 

Monday

WAYS OOSH Bondi Beach 3pm - 6:30pm

WAYS Secondary Bondi Beach 9.45am - 3.15pm

 

Tuesday

WAYS OOSH Bondi Beach 3pm-6:30pm

WAYS Secondary  Bondi Beach 9.4am - 3.15pm 

 

Wednesday

Free Counselling and Case Management FOR MORE INFO

WAYS Secondary Bondi Beach 9.45am - 3.15pm

WAYS  OOSH Bondi Beach 3pm - 6:30pm

Thursday

Free Counselling and Case Management FOR MORE INFO

WAYS Secondary Bondi Beach 9.45am - 3.15pm

WAYS OOSH Bondi Beach 3pm - 6:30pm

 

 

Friday

WAYS Secondary Bondi Beach 9.45am - 3.15 pm

WAYS OOSH 3pm - 6:30pm

 

Saturday

Youth Space Drop In recommencing Summer 2022/2023

Venue Hire Avaliable Saturday & Sunday