What's on for teens in the Northern Districts?
August 12th is International Youth Day and with this in mind we have put together a teen-friendly guide to Hornsby, Pennant Hills and the Northern Districts.
If you have teens who are constantly looking for a way to keep themselves occupied, here are some ideas to get you started.
A night (or afternoon) at the movies
A trip to Event Cinemas in Hornsby is a good way for teens to start establishing their independence (and learning about how to allocate budget; popcorn is expensive these days).
Session times can be checked via the website.
Skateboarding
There are a few different skate parks for kids to check out in the Northern Districts. Enthusiastic skateboarders, scooters and bike riders can visit Berowra, Cherrybrook, Galston or Thornleigh to work off some energy and practice their skills. Most of these have floodlights until 9:30 at night. Don’t forget to remind your child to wear a helmet and other forms of protection; accidents can happen very easily on these surfaces.
Discover the different skate park locations at: https://www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/lifestyle/sports-and-recreation/facilities/skate-parks
Basketball
There are a number of basketball and netball hoops around the Northern Districts at locations including Charles Curtis Park Playground in Normanhurst, Greenway Park Playground in Cherrybrook and Normanhurst Park Playground. Teens can show up to practice their skills and spend time with friends.
For a full list visit the Hornsby Shire Council website.
Mountain Biking
Riding off road bike trails is another great way to burn off steam and this is a hobby a lot of local parents enjoy with their older kids.
We recommend the trails at Westleigh and the Hornsby Mountain Bike Park. Check local Facebook groups before you go as they are closed during wet weather. There is also a BMX track at Montview Park.
Team sports
The Northern Districts has several local sports leagues for kids who are sports mad and want to join a team so they can maximise their skills. Some links to check out include:
- Hornsby Heights Football Club (Soccer)
- Hornsby Berowra Eagles (AFL)
- Pennant Hills-Cherrybrook Stags (Rugby League)
- Hornsby Spiders (Basketball)
- Kim Warwick Tennis Academy (Tennis)
- Hornsby Rangers (Baseball)
PCYC
PCYC Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai has been a part of the local community since 1968. This organisation offers programs and activities for all ages including gymnastics, gym and fitness, boxing, learn to play sports programs, driver education programs, junior and senior sports competitions and court sports. Located in Waitara, the PCYC is open 7 days per week.
Artforkidz
Not all kids are sports mad. Artforkidz caters to this by offering art lessons for children up to age 14 at their Berowra studio. Classes run after school during the school term and lessons are designed to give children the tools and methods required to express their own style of creativity.
Theatre for Young People
Is your teen prone to theatrics? Channel their energy into drama classes from Marion Street Theatre for Young People. The Youth Ensemble is for secondary students in years 7+. Your teen can work on their acting, collaboration and creative skills, building self-confident expression in voice and body whilst developing an understanding of the forms and traditions of theatre makers.
Explore
If you can tear your teen away from their friends, a bushwalk in the area is a nice way to spend some time together. You could plan an extended adventure along the Great North Walk, or choose a shorter walk in the area such as the Waitara Creek Trail.
The benefits of a Northern Districts lifestyle
Teens who live in the Northern Districts have the advantage of being near the train line. They can easily get to Westfield in Hornsby to shop and hang out with friends, and they have the flexibility to travel to and from the CBD. Our districts are surrounded by relaxing bushland surroundings and there are plenty of opportunities to play sport or learn a new skill.
Want more tips for youth-friendly activities in the area? Take a look at the Hornsby Council website for regular events. And if you are looking to buy or sell your home here, reach out to Page&Co today.
