In today’s fast-paced world, children often shoulder more than we might imagine. Their days are filled with homework, memorizing math formulas, tackling group projects, and navigating the social dynamics of school. This can make their schedules as packed and exhausting as those of adults. That’s why it’s essential to provide them with opportunities to relax and pursue activities that truly excite them, enhancing their mental well-being.

Engaging in hobbies is not merely a way to fill time; it’s a vital means of supporting emotional health. Hobbies help kids feel grounded and offer a constructive escape from screens and daily pressures. Studies indicate that regularly participating in enjoyable activities can reduce anxiety and foster a sense of connection.

Kathryn Hirsh-Pasek, a psychology professor at Temple University and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, emphasized in an interview with Good Housekeeping that, “Hobbies are excellent avenues for escaping life’s challenges, interacting with others, and creating something wonderful that boosts self-esteem.”

Children don’t need to master a hobby to enjoy its advantages. Hirsh-Pasek points out, “Any activity that introduces you to new people and helps you concentrate is beneficial for mental health.”

Wondering where to begin? Let your child’s interests guide you, keep the approach relaxed, and allow their curiosity to lead the way.

The best hobbies are the ones kids genuinely enjoy, not the ones we choose for them. “The best hobbies for kids are the ones that align with their interests,” says Kathryn L. Keough, Ph.D., clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute.

Trying something new can feel intimidating, especially if other kids already seem more experienced. Dr. Keough suggests easing in with a trial class or practicing at home to help build confidence first. 

Here are five expert-approved hobbies that support kids’ mental and emotional well-being.

SPORTS & ACTIVE PLAY

Sports are a natural outlet for energy and stress. Whether it’s soccer, gymnastics, tennis, or a simple backyard game of tag, movement helps kids reset. A 2021 study found that kids involved in sports are less likely to be diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Dr. Keough says the built-in support network, coaches, teammates, mentors, can make a huge difference.

VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

Art and music help kids express feelings when words fall short. Drawing, painting, dancing, singing, or playing an instrument all support emotional growth. “It allows you to bring the inside out,” Hirsh-Pasek says. Kids don’t need fancy supplies or formal lessons to begin, sometimes it starts with crayons, scrap paper, or singing along to a favorite song. As they grow more confident, families can explore classes, bands, or school performances.

CURATING COLLECTIONS

Some kids naturally become collectors, rocks, feathers, football cards, coins, Pokémon cards, stamps, you name it. Collections build focus, curiosity, and even math and research skills. And as Hirsh-Pasek points out, they can also open the door to learning about history and pop culture: Who’s on the stamp? How many yards did that player rush? What’s the value of a mint-condition card? If kids form clubs or trade with friends, it becomes a social hobby too.

STRATEGY & STORY GAMES

Games like chess, checkers, or strategic card games are excellent for concentration and confidence. They’re also great for neurodiverse kids who benefit from structure and predictable rules. “The structured, predictable gameplay provides a safe space to practice social skills, build confidence, and support skills like problem-solving and concentration,” Dr. Keough says. For kids who prefer collaboration over competition, storytelling games like Dungeons & Dragons encourage teamwork and creativity without winners or losers.

CULINARY ADVENTURES

Cooking is a joyful mix of creativity, math, science, and life skills. Kids love seeing their work turn into something delicious and sharing it with others can boost confidence. Dr. Keough notes that following recipes naturally strengthens skills like reading, measuring, and communicating. And when something flops? That’s part of the learning, too.

Hobbies should feel fun, not like extra homework. Experts emphasize the importance of balance, kids need a mix of structured activities and downtime to play, explore, and simply be kids.

“The more children experience moments of positive feeling—happiness, pride, joy—those happy moments support their overall emotional well-being,” Dr. Keough says.