In the last few days of the school year, students can be heard talking about their plans for the upcoming three-month vacation. Now, summer is here. While some kids plant themselves in the front of the TV with a bag of chips and their sweatpants on, others find enjoyment in getting out of the house and soaking up the summer sun.

According to a recent study, most teens prefer to spend their vacation time swimming or tanning at the beach. “Swimming is my favorite part of summer,” says Sydney VanDorf, “It’s refreshing, fun, and it’s something you can do with a lot of your friends.” Many other teens enjoy playing summer sports. “Summer sports are very worthwhile,” says Tiffany Klatt, “You can hang out with friends while having a great time competing and staying fit at the same time.” Still others enjoy bonfires and parties with their friends.

Many teens, especially the older ones, manage to fit in summer fun around their work schedule. They meet up with their friends after work to go see a movie, or have lunch at Panera or Noodles before their afternoon shift.

In addition, teens also enjoy working out, going to movies, reading, biking, hiking, and shopping. Others go on long family vacations, which can help to bring the family closer together.

Staying busy in the summer is important to many teens. “I always have something fun to do during the summer,” says Ana Luksich. “Good friends are important because they are always there for you and if you sit at home all the time, you would get lazy and antisocial.”

Staying busy during the summer also has a large impact on latter life as hanging out with friends and staying active in sports during the summer can help to improve social skills, reliance on oneself, and other traits that allow a person to live a strong, healthy life.