How to Hang Out at the Mall

For many young people between 12 and 15 years old, the shopping mall is more for social gathering than shopping. Throughout the weekends and summers, the malls are full of teens that do little more than hang out with their friends. Whether you're new to the neighborhood or want to improve your social skills, the mall can be a place to connect with current friends and meet new ones.

Instructions

1. Find the largest mall in your area. This is the one where everyone will want to hang out.

2. Arrange for a time for you and your friends to go together. Weekends are probably best. Evenings during the week are more likely to have troublemakers present at the mall.

3. Make sure you have a way of getting to the mall. You will likely need a parent taking you if you are still unable to drive.

4. Show courtesy in any stores you go into. If you're mainly browsing instead of buying, remember to put all merchandise back where you found it.

5. Bring money for at least the food court. You're going to end up there anyway, and while you may not be interested in shopping, you will get hungry.

6. Look out for others at the mall. With a lot of other people your age hanging out, it's a great opportunity to meet new friends. But make sure they're the "right crowd" to hang out with.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't get upset if your parents offer to go with you or ask about your stay afterward. Their biggest concern is always your safety.

• Dress as neatly as possible. Like it or not, the adults there will have negative feelings toward you. Try to give them as little ammo as possible.

• If at least one of your friends can drive, try carpooling to the mall. You'll save money on gas for everyone, reduce the hassles of those who can't drive yet, and be doing the planet a favor.

• Look out for gangs and other troublemakers, and avoid them. You're here as a social gathering, not to create mischief and mayhem.