Cotswolds Lifestyle Jan - Feb 2020

The importance of extracurricular
activities for children
build a lot of endurance. Every sport has
something good to offer, whether they play
in teams or individually.
Your child has spent a long day at school,
however their first port of call when they
get home will probably be their X Box or
something on the TV.
However, we suggest that they will benefit
greatly from a non-academic activity that
they have an interest in. There are many
activities to choose from sports, chess
clubs, dance clubs, book clubs, and music
clubs and so on… your child is bound to
find something to like.
Talk to your child about their interests and
see what they would like to do. High energy
children may prefer sports or dance, while
children who are quieter tend to prefer the
calmer activities like book clubs, cooking
class or perhaps pottery.
Here are some extra-curricular activities
that your child might enjoy.
1. Music
Some children learn to play instruments,
while others prefer to sing. There are some
who are good at doing both. There are so
many instruments to choose from that you
are bound to find something that they will
enjoy playing.
There is a certain freedom in music, and
many children find joy in it. Children also
tend to learn a lot about history and culture
while learning a musical instrument or song.
2. Sports
Sports such as football, basketball, cricket
and softball require teamwork and a lot
of energy, but if this type of sport doesn’t
sound it would suit your child, there are
other options such as tennis, badminton
and golf to try.
In team based sports they will learn how
to work well in a group and they also
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3. Dance
In dance there are so many forms to
choose from that your child is sure to find
the perfect fit. Be it ballet, tap or modern
dance it is something that will help your
child develop physically and mentally. Most
forms of dance require discipline, a strong
body and it keeps them active. In this
day and age it is particularly important as
there is very little physical activity at school
anymore.
4. Painting and Sketching
Perhaps your child is a blossoming artist.
Playing with colours is a lot of fun and
creating different works of art may be
something your child would prefer over
more boisterous activities.
These will improve creative skills as
the brain begins to develop the areas
associated with creativity. Painting and
drawing can also help develop problemsolving
skills.
5. Crafts, Pottery and Sculpting
Working with clay and creating something
with their hands can give a child a sense of
satisfaction that is not found through just
any activity. Clay can have a therapeutic
effect and is capable of keeping your child
occupied for hours.
Your child will develop sensory and motor
skills through creative works.
6. Martial Arts
There are varied styles of mixed martial
arts such as judo, Taekwondo and karate.
These teach discipline and how to control
strength.
Martial arts also teaches self-control
and self-discipline. They also help
in socialisation skills and physical
development.
7. Sewing Classes
Sewing may not be something that
crosses very many people’s minds for an
extracurricular activity, but it is a skill that is
very handy indeed. Many children grow up
with a passion for fashion, and this may be
a very useful first step for them.
Sewing is as creative a field as painting or
sculpting, and it is to be noted that it can
be very educational for those children who
want to be future designers.
8. Book Club
Book clubs are a great way for little
bookworms to have their fun and socialise
with other book lovers.
Many things can be gained from a book
club. Not only will the literature teach your
child a lot about the world, the way it works
and so much more, and it will also help
them to develop their reading skills, which
will have a tremendous impact on their
writing skills.
9. Cooking Class
Cooking classes are great for children
as they are not only an essential skill but
another area where they can express their
creativity.
There are additional benefits by joining a
cookery class. Cooking food is something
that will help your child develop focus,
creativity and will also teach your children
useful skills. They will learn about different
ingredients and how to prepare healthy and
balanced meals.
10. Drama Club
Your little drama kings and queens will love
this one as it is a fun and productive way to
use up their dramatic energies.
Drama club helps your child to develop
physical, artistic, social and public speaking
skills. It also helps to improve a their
memory and improvisation skills. Often,
shy children who have a talent for acting
become more confident and social through
drama club.
When you have a general idea of what your
child wants, you can do some research
to see who provides these classes in your
area and then make the time to take your
them to visit the place while a class is in
session and see if is a stimulating and
comfortable environment.
The staff should be friendly and
enthusiastic. It is always best to send them
to someone who is properly certified.
See if the children who are in the class are
happy and look like they are having fun
and learning at the same time.
While education is important, children need
additional outlets to express themselves.