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Only 35% of teens ages 13-17 have dated or been in a romantic relationship.

the word wow stylized with pulsing heart shaped eyes and a mouthSo if you've never been on a date, you're not alone!

high school students in a gymnasium dancing, text reads we're all in this together

First dates can be daunting, especially if it's your first one ever. Whether you're new to the dating world or have been in it a while, these five first date ideas are:

  • free or wallet-friendly.

  • action-based to help calm your nerves.

  • able to minimize the pressure for constant conversation.

  • in public and during the day to keep you safer (and parents happy).

  • tons of fun!

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Idea #1: Scavenger Hunt

hands holding binoculars, left lens has the word scavenger and the right lens has the word hunt

Scavenger hunts allow you to see how your date thinks creatively, solves problems, and handles challenges. Whether photo, video,or app-based, consider the following themes.

  • Pick a color.

  • Select a shape.

  • Work from a list of your and your date's favorite things.

  • Search for objects that look like letters of the alphabet.

  • Look for different dog breed varieties or for an entire zoo.

  • Go all-in on selfies by recreating poses of your favorite celebrity couples!

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Did you know?

Scavenger hunts build problem-solving, decision making, and teamwork skills, which are in high demand by employers (www.cityhunt.com).

Idea #2: Food Fun

young man wearing apron cooking at a street food grill giving a thumbs up

Skip the high-pressure dinner at a restaurant with these options that will feed your taste buds and your relationship.

  • Food festivalThey happen year round and are usually organized around a specific food (apples), dish (tacos), or cuisine (Italian).

  • Farmers marketVendors offer free samples and sell goodies made with their produce.

  • Fruit pickingSome places let you eat as you pick. You can even plan a second date to cook up your fresh finds.

  • Food crawl Pick your favorite food (ice cream anyone?!) and visit several shops in search of the best.

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Did you know?

Folx who attend Idaho's Spud Day can play Tug of War over a pit of mashed potatoes! (source: www.eatthis.com, Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, "20 things you don't know about food festivals", 2016)

Idea #3: Volunteer

large black dog looking up and wagging tail

Volunteering is a great way to get to know someone while giving back to your community. Options for teens available in most areas include:

  • Animal shelterWho doesn't love spending time playing with cats and dogs?!

  • Community gardenWatering, pulling weeds, and planting make healthy food options available for everyone.

  • Beach or park clean-upJoin forces to help the environment.

  • Charity walk or run — Team up to raise money for a cause you care about.

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Did you know?

The value of volunteers’ time and efforts was over $56 billion in Canada in 2018 and over $187 billion in the U.S in 2019 (source: www.charityvillage.com and www.globenewswire.com).

Idea #4: Go Classic!

a woman makes a ricochet hole in one on a mini golf course as her date watches

They're classics for a reason! These activities have stood the test of time and continue to be great options for teen dates.

  • Bowling — where striking out is a good thing.

  • Mini golf — bad shots are half the fun.

  • Game arcade — go classic video, physically competitive, or VR.

  • Picnic in the park — bring food from home or pick it up on the way.

  • Skating — couple's choice for roller, ice, or skateboard.

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Idea #5 : Cultivate Culture

people walking on a metal bridge indoors as lights swirl around. text reads Museum of Illusions Istanbul.

Too hot or cold to be outside? Explore some cultural spots. Fuel the conversation by telling each other what you love or connect with and why. Consider exploring:

  • aquariums

  • museums

  • art galleries

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Quiz

Marsai planned to take Akira on a picnic in the park, but it’s raining on the day of their first date. Which of the following would be a good alternative? Select all that apply.

Take Action

Rhianna saying you ready?

Tackle those nerves! With these simple steps, you'll be ready for a great first date!

License:

This Byte has been authored by

DW

Dawn Wiley

Instructional Designer/Youth Development Manager

MA, BBA

English

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