Entertainment and Activities for Teens After School in the 1980s

The 1980s was a vibrant and energetic decade for teenagers, offering a wide range of activities and entertainment that shaped their experiences and personalities. Here, we explore the common pastimes and daily routines of teens after a school day, highlighting the cultural and social dynamics of the era.

Socializing and Hanging Out with Friends

After school, many teens would gather in various settings to socialize with friends. Popular hangouts included malls, local parks, and each other's homes. These gatherings were not just about casual chats, but also involved activities such as sharing music and personal stories. The emergence of MTV as a premier music channel also played a significant role, allowing teens to watch music videos and discover new genres of music.

Music and Entertainment

The 1980s witnessed the rise of many iconic music genres, including pop punk and hip-hop, which heavily influenced teen culture. Teens would often listen to records or cassette tapes, or even watch MTV, which was a revolutionary channel for music videos at the time. This era also marked the beginning of the home gaming console era with hits like the Atari and Nintendo Entertainment System.

sports and Physical Activities

Apart from socializing and music, sports and physical activities were also popular among teens. Many participated in organized sports like basketball, football, and soccer, while others joined in informal games with friends. Skateboarding and BMX became trendy during this period, with many teens spending their afternoons at skate parks or riding around neighborhoods, further contributing to the physical lifestyle of the 1980s.

TV and Movie Watchers

Recreational activities often included watching popular shows and movies of the era. Shows like The Joyride Warriors and movies like Toy Story (which was released in 1995) were immensely popular, providing entertainment and escapism for teens. Television also served as a medium for socializing, with friends often gathering to watch the same shows or movies together.

Fashion and Style

Experimenting with fashion was a crucial aspect of teen culture in the 1980s. Trends such as leg warmers, acid-wash jeans, and big hair became iconic, reflecting the strong influence of Hollywood and music on teen style. These fashions were not just about appearance; they also played a role in establishing social identity and group affiliations.

Part-time Jobs and Financial Independence

For many teens, earning their own money was a significant accomplishment. Part-time jobs were common, with many working in retail, fast food, or small local businesses. Earning a little money provided a sense of financial independence and responsibility. Some teens would even use their earnings to support their after-school activities, such as buying music tapes or video games.

A Day in the Life of a Single Teen Mom

For a teen like myself, whose mother worked, I got home roughly three hours before she did. I would typically walk or bike to school, let myself in, grab a drink or snack, and chill for a few moments. If I had a lot of homework, I would start on that; otherwise, I would do household chores, such as cleaning the bathroom or kitchen or doing laundry. If my mother was working late, I would often start dinner to have it ready when she got home.

Before dinner, I usually watched music videos on MTV for about an hour, which was a great way to unwind and stay connected with the latest in music and pop culture. After dinner, I would either do more homework or read in my room, often listening to music to while away the time until my mother came home.

The 1980s were characterized by a mix of socializing, entertainment, and emerging technology that left an indelible mark on the experiences of teens during that decade. These diverse activities and interests helped shape their identities and preparing them for the challenges of adulthood.