Have you ever taken a long hard look at a list of kid's extracurricular activities (with some of these ridiculous... err...varying price tags) and wondered what's the use of any of this?
Varying price tags aside, let's talk about some of the actual benefits of getting our elementary age kids involved in something outside of academics.
Let's start with...
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| Floor Hockey Class |
1. Developing their Social Skills:
Participation in extracurricular activities exposes children to diverse peer groups and provides opportunities for teamwork, communication, and cooperation. These interactions help them develop vital interpersonal (and intrapersonal) skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
2. Time Management and Organization:
Getting to an activity is a whole curriculum in itself. We're talking about being on time and being mentally/physically prepared. Balancing school, homework, and extracurricular activities teaches kids valuable time management and organizational skills as they learn how to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines effectively.
3. Improved Self-Esteem:
Success and accomplishments in extracurricular activities help to boost a child's self-esteem and confidence. Whether it's winning a game (or learning how to gracefully accept a loss and exercise their determination), performing in a school play, or creating art, these achievements foster a sense of pride and self-worth.
4. Exploration of Interests:
Extracurricular activities offer a chance for children to explore various interests outside of a traditional classroom curriculum. This exploration can help them discover their passions and hobbies; especially if they have the opportunity to explore different age appropriate activities and are not limited to the same activity(s).
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| Indoor Soccer Class in Winter |
5.
Physical Fitness:
Sports and
other physical activities keep kids active and promote a healthy lifestyle. They develop motor skills, coordination, and endurance, contributing to their overall physical well-being.
6.
Academic Benefits:
This may come as a surprise but involvement in extracurriculars can actually improve academic performance. Kids often learn valuable skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking and perseverance among other transferrable skills that can be applied to their studies.
7.
Stress Relief:
Extracurricular activities provide a welcome break from academic pressures. Engaging in enjoyable and physiologically beneficial activities can help reduce stress and anxiety in children.
8. Cultural and Artistic Appreciation:
Exposure to the arts, music and cultural activities fosters an appreciation for creativity and diversity. It broadens their horizons and encourages cultural understanding. This is key in them becoming global citizens and feeling 'at home' anywhere in the world.
9. Leadership Development:
Many extracurricular activities offer leadership roles, allowing children to develop leadership skills, take initiative, and become responsible individuals.
10. Friendships and Support Networks:
This can provide kids an opportunity to socialize outside of their typical network and make new friends. The bonds formed with peers who share similar interests can lead to lasting friendships and support networks, providing emotional well-being for children.
The Take Aways...
Extracurricular activities are not just a fun way for elementary kids to pass the time; they are powerful tools for personal development.
Encouraging your child to explore and participate in various activities (or at least 1-2) can help them grow socially, emotionally, and intellectually.
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Monthly woodworkshops for kids
at Home Depot!
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It's important to strike a balance between academics and extracurriculars, allowing your child to thrive in both areas. So, whether you enroll your child in that sport, creative class, or science class – the benefits they gain will last a lifetime.
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