| Benefits of extramurals |
| |
|
| Physical |
| The physical benefits of extramural activities for children are well-documented. Modern kids just aren’t getting the exercise they need. Sport and other physical activities provide them with the chance to exercise their muscles and burn kilojoules. Coaches often encourage healthy eating and focus on the benefits of exercise and fitness. When principals like these are instilled in a child from a young age they are likely to stick and become lifelong habits. Learning to cope with stress and finding ways to release it in a healthy way is something your child can take with him into adulthood. |
| |
|
| Teamwork |
| Participating in team sports will help your child to develop his social skills, his ability to share, to co-operate with peers and his self esteem. It’s also an opportunity to develop leadership qualities and character. It’s not only team sports that provide these benefits but other group activities like choir, dance groups and Scouts or Brownies can help build your child’s spirit of camaraderie. |
| |
|
| Creativity |
| Most children are naturally creative but some need a nudge to push them to develop it further. Giving a child the freedom to explore his creativity in a healthy environment can help him find a hidden talent or hone a particular skill. Activities within music, dance, art and acting are great for encouraging children to use their individuality. Creativity also encourages problem-solving, reasoning, forethought, planning and flexibility. |
| |
|
| Self-confidence |
| Raising a child with a healthy self-esteem should be a parental goal. Children with a good self-esteem tend to be more positive and courageous because they are comfortable in their own skin. Trying out new things, mastering a new skill and achieving some level of success will boast your child’s confidence and encourage him explore even further. Your response to your child’s attempts can also bolster his self-esteem. Acknowledge effort, not only success. |
| |
|
| Emotional growth |
| You may not think that failure is beneficial to your child’s development but learning to cope with disappointments which are inevitable in life is something he is going to have to learn soon enough. Losing may not be something your child will enjoy but his ability to cope with ‘loss’ and to do so graciously is invaluable to his emotional growth. Overcoming fear and learning to control his emotions at specific times are also growth areas. |
| |
|
| Life skills |
| Extra circular activities provide a wonderful platform for teaching and reinforcing essential life skills. Planning for activities, time management and persistence are some key aspects that parents can concentrate on. For example, if your child starts an extramural but battles to cope initially, rather encourage him to find ways to further develop his skills or to try awhile longer before ‘giving up’. |
| |
|
| Most children learn a second language at primary school level. Extra classes for a third language would be beneficial, especially in a culturally diverse country like South Africa. With your help, choosing the right extramural can help to strengthen his decision-making skills and learning how to way up the pros and cons. |
| |
|
| Independence and responsibility |
| Although both of these points can be considered as life skills, they are worthy of a mention on their own. Some children naturally want to explore and exercise their autonomy, others may require a gentle push out of the nest. You can coach your child to be more independent and at the same time encourage him to be responsible. Taking care of a new pet or helping with specific household chores requires some independence and responsibility. Extramurals can achieve the same goal. Being responsible for his kit or sports equipment, art supplies or a drama costume will teach your child to look after and respect his possessions. |
| |
|
| ....and mostly FUN! |
| Extra activities should always be fun for your child. When they become a bore or a chore, your child will lose all the ‘hidden’ benefits and the joy will be lost. You need not have any other reason for letting your child participate in extramurals other than wanting him to enjoy his childhood and be a well-rounded individual. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
