Selecting Extracurricular Activities for Your Child

By Shnieka Johnson, museum educator, curriculum designer and independent consultant specializing in museums and schools

Like many parents, the academic success of my child is a top priority (even though he is just a toddler). However, I know that my son is creative and active, and that his happiness and aspirations will likely depend upon his involvement and success in extracurricular activities, whether in sports, music, cultural or something else arts-related. Although I want my son to experience a variety of activities, I know that it is not financially wise to pay for everything that sounds interesting.

In attempting to narrow down the activities to those worth pursuing, a few things to consider are:

• How much does your child enjoy the activity?
• Will this be a long-term commitment?
• Will this cause a conflict in your schedule?
• Does it fit in your budget?

I have a toddler, but for school-age children, after-school programs are a great option for identifying the best extracurricular activities for your child. This option is especially attractive for working families since after-school activities are often easier to balance with work and family life. Also, as children form healthy relationships with teachers, participation in extracurricular activities with those same teachers will allow them to be comfortable learning and exploring.

After-school programs improve student achievement in school, enhance test scores and work habits. By providing students with activities such as music, art, sports, and cultural experiences, afterschool programs improve students’ social skills, gives them confidence, and influences their educational and professional aspirations.

In addition to extracurricular activities, during school breaks, there are many camps available to children to continue their music, art, sports, and cultural experiences. For example, many learning spaces, like museums, offer activities during the Winter, Spring and Summer breaks. A few of my favorites in the New York metro area are the American Museum of Natural History, the Intrepid Air and Space Museum and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. The programs offered at these venues are top notch and will be memorable experiences for your child.

Although extracurricular activities can be important aspects of your child’s development, remember not to overbook your child’s interest in being a kid. Some of the best learning time is unscheduled. It is the teachable moments in life that make the most influence.

• Using Art for Therapy
• School Selection: What is the Best Learning Environment for Your Child?
• Arts and Crafts at Home- No Need to Be Scared!
• A for is Art: Mom & Tot Day at the Museum
• Mommy and Me with Paint Make THREE

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