[AD. This is a contributed post]
A child’s learning journey doesn’t stop once they leave the school gates at the end of each day. There are countless opportunities for them to continue learning in their own time. Extra-curricular activities are a fantastic and productive way for them to spend their time after school or on weekends. I have teamed up with a private girls’ school in Hertfordshire to discuss the benefits of extra-curricular activities in further detail below.
[Photo by Artem Kniaz on Unsplash]
Benefits of extra-curricular activities.
Teaches time management skills.
Children who are encouraged to juggle a busy schedule learn the value in organisation and time management. If they are learning an instrument, for example, they will not only have to factor in time for homework, chores, and socialisation, but also for their music lessons and practise in between. Time management skills are important, and something that will serve them well throughout life. Especially when they grow up and get a job.
Boosts a child’s confidence.
Children who spend every minute of their spare time locked in their bedroom won’t be given the opportunity to meet new people or develop various skills. Extra-curricular activities will provide these opportunities, which in turn, will help your child with their self-esteem.
Promotes commitment & determination.
Through extra-curricular activities your child will learn how important it is to try their best at something and not give up, even if it gets tough. Determination and commitment are crucial personality traits that will benefit them throughout their education and beyond.
Increases their future prospects.
The skills developed through extra-curricular activities will open up a world of opportunities for your child. Perhaps they will find a passion for it and potentially turn it into a career. Regardless, being able to demonstrate a commitment to something outside of normal school will look great on your child’s university application, if this is something they’d potentially like to do when they’re older.
When I worked in primary schools, we always tried to promote extracurricular activities for the children as best we can! These are great benefits for children to get involved in extracurricular activities x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
I loved extra curricular activities as a kid, and it definitely taught me a lot of social skills!
I loved doing extra cirricular activities as a child, I'm sure I had something on pretty much every night after school!
Amy x
callmeamy.co.uk
Extra activities are so important for development! Aazeen starts tennis lessons soon and I honestly can’t wait to see how that will help her. Thank you for sharing!
Soffy / https://alittlecupofus.com/
I love doing activities with Leo. We do gymnastics, swimming and sign language. I'd love him to learn an instrument too when he's older but I don't want to force him.
Corinne x
My son's never done loads, but he does do (did more but wants to cut down, I'm sad about that, now he's discovered football) a lot of tennis, and then football. I think they're so important to help give them time out, breadth of experience and friends, opportunities in future, and an excuse to not be on screens
Extracuriccular is such a fab way to develop new hobbies and make friends it's definitely something I'd encourage