Every now and then, we all want to relax from our busy daily lives.

School and other work are definitely important, but nobody wants to get overstressed. That's what hobbies are for. During breaks and free time, hobbies allow us to do what we enjoy outside of work or school. Like other recreational activities, hobbies provide good times and learning experiences to cherish. Through them, you can also develop positive characteristics, such as confidence, maturity, communication skills and so on.

Sometimes it's difficult to choose hobbies. People may not be completely sure what they like to do, or what activities out there fit their personality. That's why "We're Talking, Too!" has created a section devoted solely to this topic.

See what other preteens do during their leisure time and how it affects them. Among their hobbies, perhaps you will find something that you would like to try as well. And even if you try something and don't enjoy it, you may end up with a better idea or understanding of what you want (or don't want) your hobbies to be.

After all, one of the greatest things about having a hobby is that it is something you enjoy doing, whether it is physically active (such as exercising) or just calm and quiet (such as reading).

Hobbies can be anything you want them to be!


Last reviewed January 2008