With all the additional schoolwork kids have nowadays, should they even be involved in extracurricular activities?  Shouldn’t all their energy and focus be on their schoolwork, since there is such competition for  post secondary school spots?  Are extracurricular activities in the least bit necessary?  The answer is–they absolutely are important and most necessary!!

Extracurricular activities boost a child’s self confidence and self esteem by allowing them to participate in areas of interest and ability.  It also helps to develop people skills, cooperation, responsibility, organization and a whole host of other skills necessary for success.  Besides, it is a good stress reliever for our kids–who seem to have an over abundance of stress in their lives today.

I have had parents ask me if they should take their child out of an extracurricular activity when they are experiencing academic challenges.  In most cases, the child is already feeling bad about him/herself, why make it worse by taking them out of something they are good in.  Having said that, I always caution parents not to over commit their child, or allow their child to do so.  Pick a reasonable number of activities that your child can comfortably handle.  Remember that “reasonable” is different for each child–so treat your children equally, not the same.  Allow your child to have a say in what they want to participate in–it is their activity, not yours.  Develop an ability they have–say singing, drama, art.  Be encouraging and supportive when they are initially frustrated in learning a new skill associated with the activity, however if they have made an effort and tried an activity and still don’t like it, then try something else.

Balance is important here.  Balance between schoolwork, extracurricular activities, family and friends.  A balance for a well rounded child!