There are so many opportunities for children to explore their interests and capabilities outside of school, and taking part in extra-curricular activities can be a great way for them to develop new skills and deepen a passion.
Whether it’s sports, music, drama or science, there’s something for all interests and abilities.
Here an independent school in Reigate explores some of the benefits children get from participating in extra-curricular activities.
New and enhanced skills
Your child could gain a new skill for life or improve existing skills by joining a club after school or at the weekends.
If there’s a topic they’re especially interested in, why not give them the opportunity to explore it further and improve their knowledge in that area?
Conversely, if there’s something they really struggle with, attending an extra-curricular activity centred around it may help them overcome any blocks they have with it away from the pressure of the school environment.
Making new friends
Joining a club provides the chance for children to make new, like-minded friends who share the same interests as them.
They’ll probably love having someone to talk about and share their passion with. This can be difficult at school with many children interested in lots of different things.
Your child may forge lifelong friendships by taking part in extra-curricular activities away from their normal social circle. They’ll also learn to interact with authority figures in an appropriate way.
Increased confidence
Getting the opportunity to explore their interests and abilities helps boost children’s self-esteem.
As they become really good at something, they realise that they are capable of mastering a skill and achieving their goals if they apply themselves with dedication and consistency.
This increased confidence may have a positive impact on other areas of their life, encouraging them to try new things and rise to any challenges they face.
A strong work ethic
Getting themselves prepared for their activity and practising their new skills at home gives children a sense of responsibility and teaches them that they have to work hard to reach their goals.
They may also have to get up early or spend some of their after-school or weekend time attending their club, and they’ll need to do so consistently if they want to see progress.
Learning this strong work ethic in childhood benefits children for the rest of their life.
As you can see, there are many advantages to children participating in extra-curricular activities, aside from the opportunity to switch off and have some fun.