Published: 12:00 AM, 17 October 2026
We Should Ensure Sound Pastimes for Teenagers to Prevent Them from Derailment
Teenagers represent the future of Bangladesh, but their healthy development is increasingly challenged by academic pressure, unemployment concerns, excessive screen time and limited opportunities for constructive recreation. Ensuring sound pastimes for adolescents is essential to protecting them from delinquency and helping them grow into responsible, confident and productive citizens.
Adolescence is a critical stage of life when young people develop their personalities, values and social relationships. Without proper guidance and positive activities, some teenagers may become vulnerable to harmful peer pressure, substance abuse, cyberbullying, gambling and other risky behaviours. Poverty, family conflict, social exclusion and a lack of emotional support can further increase their vulnerability.
In Bangladesh, however, recreational opportunities remain unevenly distributed. While children in some urban areas have access to sports facilities, libraries, cultural centres and organized activities, many teenagers in rural villages, low-income urban neighbourhoods and remote communities have few safe places to spend their leisure time. Playgrounds are increasingly disappearing in cities because of unplanned urbanization, while many educational institutions prioritize academic results over extracurricular development.
Sound pastimes do more than provide entertainment. Sports, reading, music, debate, theatre, painting, scouting and volunteering can help teenagers develop discipline, teamwork, creativity and leadership. Participation in such activities also improves physical and mental well-being, builds friendships and provides healthy ways to manage stress.
For instance, a teenager involved in a local football club or debate society may develop a stronger sense of responsibility and belonging. Similarly, participation in cultural programs and community service can encourage empathy, cooperation and respect for others. These activities can help young people use their time productively while reducing their exposure to harmful influences.
Parents should encourage their children to explore interests beyond textbooks and examinations. Open communication, emotional support and reasonable supervision are more effective than excessive restrictions. Schools and colleges should regularly organize sports competitions, cultural events, science clubs, reading circles and volunteer programs to ensure that students have opportunities to discover their talents.
