In this blog post we will be talking about the benefits of extracurricular activities for children
Besides school being the main constant in a children’s life, they have particular interests and want to explore them.
School can be a very intimidating place, especially for children who are shy. Extracurricular activities are a good way to boost their self-confidence outside of academic purposes. Having extracurricular activities will relieve some of the pressure that school gives and they will also gain more freedom. This, in turn, will make sure that the child is enjoying the activity without feeling any negative emotions. This can even be turned around and, instead of extracurricular activities revolving around fun activities, it can also revolve around classes they have in school. For example, if your child likes science and he wants to explore more, they can start taking part in extracurricular activities that involve science. These examples show that extracurricular activities are a great way to boost their self-esteem.
More ways to boost their self-confidence is when children are involved in group work. Practicing sports will teach a child that failure is part of success and playing team sports will enhance their communication skills. Extracurricular activities will help the little ones to know more people and maybe even make new friends. School can be a scary place for children who feel lonely and find it challenging interacting with other children. That is why knowing other kids in a different environment will boost their confidence and they will be able to make friends more easily.
Source: https://www.freepik.com/vectors/school School vector created by brgfx - www.freepik.com
Another reason why extracurricular activities are good for children is that these activities provide a break other than just going to school. For many children, their extracurricular activity is something they always look forward to. It is a way to peak their interest even more and explore all the options there are outside of academic purposes. School does not always show all the sides that can have a child’s interest, that is why it is important to show them that there is more than just academic purposes and see what they like to do. In addition, extracurricular activities are a way for children to not think about school or feel any pressure in what they are doing. As well as getting to know other people will also develop more social skills. Of course, not everybody is the same and this counts for children as well. In primary school, children are with the same people year after year. Maybe there will be a new student, but overall the dynamic in school will stay the same. Once a child is in a different environment, knowing that everybody is indeed different, they will automatically learn how to adapt.
In conclusion, extracurricular activities sometimes make sure that children will step outside of their comfort zone. It can indeed be scary, but taking that chance might end up in something more than what was expected at first.
Sources:
6 Ways to Improve Your Child’s Self-Esteem with Extracurricular Activities By Jenn Ossen-Foss
5 reasons why extracurricular activities are a key to your child’s holistic development By Aviva
Young school-aged children’s behaviour and their participation in extracurricular activities By Kym Simoncini, Nerina Caltabiono
Extracurricular activities and the development of social skills in children with intellectual and specific learning disabilities By B. A. Brooks, F. Floyd, D. L. Robins, W. Y. Chan
