What Are the Best Self Expression Activities for Teens?

Ever tried to understand a teenager? It might seem like reading a book with half of the pages missing, yet it’s so important for you to guide them in finding their voice. 

In the whirlwind of adolescence, teens need to find outlets to express themselves. Did you know that around 61% of adolescents experience stress due to academic and peer pressures? That’s where self-expression activities come in handy. They’re not just fun – they’re a lifeline when teens need them most.

Maya Angelou once said, “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” Isn’t that just perfect for what we’re discussing? Creative expression can help teenagers find themselves amidst high school chaos. 

So how do you help teens get better at figuring out (and talking about) who they are? Let’s walk through some of the best self-expression activities for teens. 

What is “Self-Expression”?

Self-expression is like a fingerprint – it’s unique to each person. It’s how someone conveys who they are, what they feel, and what they believe in.

For teens, this could be as simple as doodling on a notebook in math class or as bold as creating a TikTok video that goes viral. They are in the stage of life where figuring out who they are is just as important as understanding algebra (maybe more, if you ask them).

Self-expression allows teens to explore their identities, build confidence, and handle emotions in healthy ways.

Examples of self-expression are everywhere. Think about art, music, fashion, writing, dance, even the way someone decorates their bedroom. Each is a canvas for teens to throw paint onto, however abstract or traditional that painting might be.

12 Best Self-Expression Activities for Teens

Now that you know what self-expression is, how do you encourage your teens to explore it for themselves?

1. Encourage Writing Every Day

Writing is more than putting pen to paper – it’s like opening a window to the soul. Encourage teens to journal, blog, or even pen poetry. Writing helps them articulate thoughts that might be too awkward to say out loud. 

Daily writing also improves language skills, making English class a breeze. It’s a win-win situation for both personal growth and academic achievement. 

And who knows? You might just inspire the next J.K. Rowling or Shakespeare!

2. Have Them Look for Inspiration

Imagine a teen browsing through Instagram and stumbling across an artist whose style clicks with them. That’s the magic of inspiration. Encourage them to explore musicians, poets, writers, or dancers who resonate with them. By emulating these idols, teens can find a style that’s all their own.

It’s like trying on clothes. Sometimes you have to try a few ill-fitting ones before you find something that suits you perfectly. Once they find inspiration, their creativity will start flowing.

3. Practice Public Speaking

Public speaking sounds scary, right? But it’s one of the best ways for a teen to express their thoughts clearly. Whether it’s joining a debate team or performing in a school play, speaking in front of others builds confidence and eloquence.

Conquering the fear of public speaking is a lifelong skill that will help them in countless ways, so throw them a challenge. Can they present their favorite book or TV show to family members? It’s a safe environment to fumble and learn.

4. Teach How to Interpret Spoken and Body Language

Understanding spoken words and body language is like having a secret decoder ring. It enriches a teen’s communication toolkit, enabling them to interpret not just what is being said but how it’s being said.

Role-playing exercises are great for this. They get to see firsthand how posture, tone, and gestures affect communication. 

It’s not just useful – it’s fascinating! Who knew so much could be said without uttering a single word?

5. Reinforce Social Boundaries

Social boundaries define personal space and comfort zones. Teaching teens to understand and respect these limits helps them engage better with peers and adults.

Why not set up group activities that require personal space awareness? It could be as simple as a game of charades. Learning to read cues and respect boundaries fosters empathy and strengthens relationships. 

6. Teach Idiomatic Expressions

Idiomatic expressions might sound dry, but they’re the spice of language. Imagine teaching your students the meaning of phrases like “kick the bucket” or “raining cats and dogs.” It’s not just about the literal meaning – it’s about the stories behind them. Why do we say these odd things? This exercise helps teens not only with language skills but also with thinking outside the box.

You could create a game where students act out idioms and others guess what they represent. Think of it as a charades-with-a-twist. The fun and laughter that ensue are just bonuses. Plus, it’s a chance for students to step into another person’s shoes, understanding context and intention behind words.

This is more than just teaching language; it’s about encouraging empathy and understanding. Your classroom becomes a place where students are not just learning words, but the stories and emotions behind them.

7. Regularly Practice Conversation

Conversations are a dying art, especially in this digital age where emojis can replace text. But face-to-face interactions are critical for self-expression. Designate time in your class for students to simply talk. Discuss current events, their favorite music, or weekend plans.

A great example is holding a “quiet conversation” exercise, where students communicate with each other by writing notes or drawing on paper. This can help them articulate thoughts they might be uncomfortable voicing aloud. It also caters to those who are more introverted, providing a platform to share without pressure.

This practice builds confidence and gives students a voice. It’s about creating a safe space where all opinions matter and expression is encouraged.

8. Start Mentorship Programs

Mentorship programs aren’t just for adults. They can be incredibly beneficial for teens, too. Pair older students with younger ones, allowing them to share experiences, knowledge, and advice.

Think of it like a buddy system but with a focus on growth and support. This program can start as simple as weekly check-ins or structured activities where mentors guide mentees through challenges.

Mentorship encourages accountability and develops leadership skills. It’s a fantastic way to build a community within your school where everyone feels valued and connected.

9. Do Creative and Expressive Crafts

Crafts are perfect for letting teens express themselves without the usual rules and restrictions. Consider projects that allow open-ended creativity, like making vision boards, designing their own t-shirts, or creating sculptures from recyclable materials.

For instance, you could have a “mask-making day” where students design masks that represent different facets of their personalities. This not only taps into their artistic side but opens conversations about identity and perception.

Crafting is therapeutic. It’s a chance for students to work with their hands and see their ideas come to life, which can be incredibly validating.

10. Get Outdoors

Never underestimate the power of fresh air and a change of scenery. Outdoor activities can be a breath of fresh air for your curriculum. Organize nature walks, outdoor art classes, or even story-writing sessions inspired by the environment around them.

One idea is a “sound scavenger hunt,” where students identify and record different sounds they hear outside, then create a story or poem based on those sounds.

Being outdoors stimulates the senses and can spark creativity in ways the confines of a classroom might not. It’s also a fantastic way to discuss environmental topics, fostering a greater connection with the world around them.

11. Practice Yoga 

Practicing yoga is a little like opening a pressure valve – they’ll leave the mat feeling more at ease.

Encouraging students to create their own yoga routines allows them to express individuality. They can choose poses that suit their moods or even develop a signature sequence. 

You might even invite a certified yoga instructor to your school for a session or two!

12. Write a Letter to Their Future Self

Do you remember writing letters as a teenager? There’s something magical about putting pen to paper and sharing thoughts with your future self. Encouraging students to write a letter to their future selves can be an inspiring way for them to express emotions, set goals, and reflect on personal growth.

Have your students write down their dreams, ambitions, and worries. Maybe they’ll include advice for their future selves or what they hope to achieve in the coming years. This exercise not only helps them articulate their thoughts but also gives them something tangible to look back on in the future.

To make this activity more engaging, consider incorporating multimedia elements. Have students record a video message or create a digital collage to accompany their letters. This multimedia approach can breathe life into their written words and allow them to express themselves in multiple formats.

Your Next Steps

So what do you say – are you ready to start teaching your teen students the art of self expression? 

You don’t have to stick with these ideas, either. Your classroom is a blank canvas, and only you know which sorts of activities will resonate best with your students.

If you need more inspiration – or help with getting started – explore the Stanfield Company’s resources and curriculum on social skills, creating social boundaries, and more. Together, we’ll create a supportive learning environment for all students.