HOW TO CHOOSE AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN

Theimportance of after-school activities in child development

After-school activities complement children’s education in different areas, both cognitive and physical. They help them socialise, form new bonds and improve their emotional intelligence through their relationships with other children.

Knowledge-based activities allow for more flexible, playful learning suited to their interests, without the pressure of a grade.

Physical activities, meanwhile, help them self-regulate, discover the benefits of sport and develop values such as perseverance, resilience and tolerance of frustration in a less demanding setting than school. They also encourage teamwork and respect for other people’s pace.

It is also an opportunity for children to build on their natural talents and refine skills that may open doors in the future, whether academically, in sport or in the arts.

Step 1: Get to know your child’s interests and abilities

It is important that children know what activities their school offers and get the chance to try the ones that appeal to them. As parents we know their interests and their strengths, but we should let them explore without fear of making the wrong choice. They may discover a talent or an interest that builds their self-esteem and motivates them to keep learning.

Step 2: Age as a key factor in choosing activities

Age is a key consideration when choosing after-school activities. In the early years it is a good idea to opt for general activities such asMultisport, which let them try different disciplines without being pigeonholed too soon.

In primary school most activities are suitable for any child with a genuine interest in them. Language activities, for example, are adapted to every age through methods specific to each stage of development, and are worthwhile because they build learning from an early age.

Step 3: Balancing free time, schoolwork and activities

Despite the benefits of after-school activities, it is essential to find a balance. Too many activities can create stress and stop children enjoying free time, which is essential to developing imagination and creativity. Respecting their time to rest and play freely is key to their wellbeing.

Benefits of after-school activities for all-round development

• Physical and motor development: Movement is essential in childhood. Sports activities improve coordination, stamina and motor skills naturally and enjoyably.
• Intellectual development: Any enriching activity contributes to cognitive development. It is well established that physical activity supports learning, and activities such as language study or reading stories stimulate the mind.

• Social skills and teamwork: Taking part in extracurricular activities improves socialising. Children learn to find their feet in new settings and improve their social skills. Team sports also encourage collaboration and a sense of belonging.
• Creativity and critical thinking: Activities such asstories and crafts encourage imagination and art, whilestreet dance lets them express themselves freely through movement and choreography.

Types of after-school activity: finding the right one for your child

• Sports activities: Ideal for children with plenty of energy, or for those who need to move more day to day.
• Arts activities: Perfect for the most creative, whether through drawing, dance or music.
• Science and technology activities: Ideal for curious children who are keen to learn.
• Family activities: As well as school activities, there areplenty of options to enjoy as a family. You can also organise your own bespoke activity.

Practical advice for a good, sustainable choice

The best advice is to watch and listen to your children. Identify what they like and what they are good at, show them what is available and encourage them to try different options. Also bear in mind their free time and make sure you offer them a balance between schoolwork, rest and activities.

Building memorable experiences for your children

Choosing the right after-school activity can make a real difference to children’s development. It not only lets them learn and improve skills, but also contributes to their emotional and social wellbeing. The most important thing is that they enjoy the experience and find in it a space to grow, explore and have fun.