For many parents, the grades their children get in school are incredibly important to them. They want to see their children succeed in their studies, and ultimately in life. To truly have a well-rounded child that grows into a well-rounded adult however, it’s critical that children also engage in extracurricular activities outside of the classroom. If you want to learn how extracurricular activities help child development, read on.
“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”
This statement is more than a proverb, it’s also a fact. Parents often feel compelled to pressure their children to focus on getting good grades, and working hard in school. Their reasoning lies in the fact that they envision their children getting into a good college, and eventually getting a good job, having a nice life, and much success.
Unfortunately, focusing completely on academic achievements can make a child feel stressed. That much pressure at a young age sometimes causes children to feel depressed, and can even lead to their resentment and abandonment of their studies.
Extracurricular activities on the other hand, provide them with a release. Through activities such as soccer, martial arts, crafting classes, cooking classes and more, they get the chance to explore things they are passionate about, and find their strengths.
A child who is artistic may learn they enjoy painting, singing or playing an instrument. One that is more athletic may excel in a variety of sports. Even a child obsessed with their studies may find joy in clubs that let them explore their favorite subjects further.
Finding your strengths builds confidence
As a child learns what they are good at, they will not only enjoy an enhancement in their motor skills, they will also gain a deep seeded confidence. They will learn things like time management as well, as extracurricular activities force a child to prioritize their to-do list. Even this will help them to be more confident, because it will help them feel like they are taking control of their lives.
Engaging in extracurricular activities is typically done in a group setting. This will help your child’s development in the sense that they will learn they are not alone in their interests, and they will learn how to interact with like-minded individuals. Socializing with others who enjoy what they like doing may even help them develop friendships that last a lifetime.
Bottom line – Studies are important in school, but extracurricular activities are too. Talk to your children about the types of activities you think they would enjoy. By beginning the conversation early you can give them options for what they would like to try until you find the perfect activity. Who knows? What they choose could be the ticket to their future dream job, and give them the successes you have always wanted for them.