Every parent has dreams for their child and high hopes that they will achieve them. Through the practice of extracurricular activities, children are able to build on their social skills, physical strength and cognitive development. So, what is an extracurricular activity? To simply put it, they are activities that children take part in outside school hours. They are voluntary and allow children to take part in enjoyable tasks amongst likeminded people. Taking part in this allows children to work on more than their academic skills. Here is a guide on the benefits of extracurricular activities for kids.
Improvement in academic performance
Some students stay away from extracurricular activities in fear that they won’t have enough time to complete their schoolwork. However, ECA’s are well known for aiding with academic practices and strengthening the tools needed to achieve the best grades in class. Students that participate in activities that they have a passion for, such as martial arts or baking, find it helps with concentration levels and teaches them the importance of time management. Many sports activities train children to focus and build stamina in times of difficulty. These skills can be transferred into the classroom and used in study sessions and exam periods. Studies alone have shown students who participate in extracurricular activities on a regular basis, achieve better grades and have higher academic goals.
Boosts self esteem
Naturally, when you succeed in an activity you enjoy and have worked hard for, it will boost your self-esteem levels. For example, let’s say your child enjoys art and their teacher signs them up for a competition. Working hard towards that and receiving a reward for the talent not only shows how exciting the subject can be but shows the individual their true potential and uplifts them. Improvement in confidence is the key to success in every aspect of life. Extracurricular activities can do just that for children of all ages.
Social life
Making friends can be difficult, even as adults. However, the difference between a grown up and a child, is they have limited access to making friends. This is usually through school or family friends. By allowing your child to take part in an extracurricular activity, they will come across likeminded people who are usually of a similar age to them. Making friends in these situations allows children to make stronger bonds with peers and helps expand their social network.
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