After School Activities

One question parents sometimes grapple with is “should the kids be encouraged to participate in after school events.”  With the exception of detentions, the answer is YES.

Let’s first define “after school” events.  These can be clubs, sports, band/music/plays…anything organized.

School is about learning more than reading, writing and arithmetic.  School also plays a role in learning social skills (after all, we all know “All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten.”)  When participating with others, social skills are developed.

“Sports” are just one way to learn how to be on a team.  Putting on a play is a team effort.  A band wouldn’t sound good if not playing together.

Sometimes the student finds it difficult to coordinate varied activities.  We think this is an area where parents can help by being supportive and not directive.  If a student gets overwhelmed, let them know their options…and don’t make the decision for them.   What better way for the student to learn how to recognize “overwhelmed” and learn to prioritize.  (We do know some students end up in very bad places if there is no relief to the feeling of overwhelmed…this is why parents must be aware (and not helicopters.))

Parents are sometimes worried their students may get hurt playing a sport.  We certainly don’t advocate getting hurt.  We do advocate organized school sports where there are coaches and guidelines followed.

Overall, it really doesn’t matter what the child participates in as long as they participate.  Students tend not to “play” anymore. Going home daily and playing video games isn’t healthy.

So encourage your child to participate in group activities.  With the array of items offered in schools (often numbering over 100) there’s a good chance there is an activity for your child.

What are your thoughts on after school activities?