Extracurricular activities provide children of all ages with important life skills and experience that may not be acquired through regular school lessons, and research shows that those who engage in such activities generally go on to be more successful and earn higher salaries in later life. Some of the benefits of taking part in extracurricular activities include:
- Improved social skills
- Better teamwork and cooperative skills
- Improved time management skills
- Greater self-confidence
- Greater sense of responsibility
- Improved communications skills
- Greater ability to solve problems
- Discovering hidden talents
- Capitalizing on special gifts and talents
- Meeting people from different backgrounds and cultures
- Finding a sense of belonging
- Trying new things outside the child’s comfort zone
- Allowing academic underachievers to shine in different areas
The types of extracurricular activities that might be chosen can either capitalize on existing interests, skills and talents or expose children to new experiences, ideas and people. Often a combination of different activities can help children to broaden their horizons and also provide an outlet for pure enjoyment. It is important, however, that children do not take on too many activities. They must still have sufficient time to devote to their studies and their social and family lives – and have time to relax, too.
[Article first appeared in the February 2011 issue of Family Times published by Play-a-Round Golf. To get your own copy of Family Times mailed to you each month chocked full of useful information and coupons you can use, just send your mailing address to starter@playaroundgolf.net.]
