Hobbies That Feel Like Healing Your Inner Child

By: Monica Chang

Growing up, I always had some random craft going on – clay charms, duct tape wallets, DIY bracelets, you name it. I was just obsessed with making cute little projects simply because they made me happy. I wasn’t chasing perfection, and there was absolutely no pressure – just pure fun and creativity. 

But somewhere between getting older, being busy, and feeling more pressure, that side of me got a lot quieter. And recently, I’ve found myself really missing it all. So this is your sign (and mine) to bring a bit of that version of us back – the one who loves creating things, trying new things, and romanticizing the smallest hobbies. Sometimes, healing your inner child can look as simple as coloring in a coloring book or making a lopsided clay keychain and being oddly proud of it. 

Here are a few hobbies to look into that feel like love letters to your inner child: 

Polymer Clay Crafting 

This one is especially nostalgic for me and might really resonate with any trinket girlies. I grew up making silly YouTube videos dedicated to my polymer clay art, and getting back into it now feels like reconnecting with my freer, younger self. The possibilities are endless, too – charms, magnets, keychains, phone charms, photo stands – and there’s something kind of rewarding about doing it, too. Plus, they make amazing personalized gifts. 

Pickleball

I’m sure you’ve heard of this one by now. Pickleball has become the thing and, honestly, I can’t knock it. You can show up with zero experience and still have the best time and get a good sweat in. Play with your besties, laugh at mess-ups, and enjoy moving your body. It brings back that carefree energy of running around outside for hours as a kid – the kind of fun you truly never wanted to end. 

Coloring Books 

Coloring used to be the best escape. Bringing it back as an adult can feel surprisingly calming and therapeutic, giving your mind a break from screens and stressful responsibilities. Whether you’re just doodling, making sure not to color outside of the lines in a coloring book, or painting a whole masterpiece, it’s a really great way to unwind and ease your mind. 

Scrapbooking 

Scrapbooking is a lot like journaling, but in a visual way. Make it a goal to take more pictures and curate a book of moments that made you happy. Think polaroids from a night out, movie tickets, or even receipts from your favorite restaurants. It slows you down in the best way and acts as the perfect reminder of your memories, both big and small. 

Baking for Fun 

Remember baking for class projects or on random weekends with your parents as a kid? Channel that soft energy and pick a cozy recipe, blast a playlist filled with childhood classics, and taste-test along the way just like you would when you were little.  

Sometimes the absolute best way to recharge and feel connected with yourself is to do something silly, crafty, and just for fun. Not only will it heal your inner child, but it’ll really allow you to deeply reconnect with the kid version of yourself that’s always in you.