What are the benefits of extracurricular activities?
In speaking with children, it is evident that many children are overloaded with multiple activities while other children are not involved in any activities. Many of the children in the latter category tend to stay indoors involved with screen time. While it is not advisable to push introverted, anxious children into competitive contact sports, it is advised to find some sort of activity that fits the child’s personality and interests whether it be an instrument, theater, team athletics, individual sports, scouts, academic clubs, or service organizations. Having that link to a group of others with similar interests aids the child is multiple ways.
Research indicates that children who are involved in extracurricular activities have improved self-esteem, better social skills, and higher academic performance.
Improved Self-Esteem– Exploring a talent and honing their skills adds an additional layer to their self-image construct. In addition to conceptualizing his/herself as a child, a student, a son/daughter, and a friend, they are adding on ‘a dancer’, ‘a snowboarder’ or ‘a drummer’. Having a solid understanding of one own’s strengths and weaknesses gives a child a stronger sense of self.
Better Social Skills- Allowing a child to enter into a new activity where they may be unfamiliar with all or some of a group of people tasks him or her to initiate interactions, introduce themselves, navigate unfamiliar social situations, and form new relationships. Learning how to adapt in that environment is an essential life skill. During the activity, they learn teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. They also have to engage their problem-solving skills to negotiate the situation. For instance, if teammate A is upset because the child did not pass them the ball, they are then required to figure out how to mediate the situation. Having strong social skills is an indicator of future success.
Higher Academic Performance– There have been research studies that indicate a correlation between involvement with extracurricular activities and academic performance. This could be influenced by a number of factors. As previously noted, the child may have improved self-esteem which allows them to be more willing and confident to take risks in the classroom. Even if they are unsure if their answer is correct, they may be willing to participate and risk being incorrect with that added confidence. Asking questions and taking academic risks leads to learning. Also noted above, the child may have developed some essential life skills such as adaptability and problem-solving which are needed for academic tasks as well.
I would strongly urge parents to help children identify an activity of interest. Look up local groups and explore the options available. If finances are an issue, you can look for low cost activities or service groups. You could start your own book club. You could seek other parents to start a co-op or look for a local parent group to start an organized activity. Having these experiences will greatly benefit children and help to prepare them for future success.
