Guildford Living Feb - Mar 2020

The importance of extra
curricular activities
Your child has spent a long day at school, however their
first port of call when they home will probably be their
X Box or something on the TV. However, we suggest that
they will benefit greatly from a non-academic activity
that they have an interest in.
Here are some examples of extracurricular activities
that your child might enjoy.
1. Music LESSONS - Some children learn to play instruments,
while others prefer to sing. There are some who are good at doing
both. There are so many instruments to choose from that you are
bound to find something that they will enjoy playing.
2. Sports CLUBS - Sports such as football, basketball, cricket
and softball require teamwork and a lot of energy, but if this type of
sport doesn’t sound like it suits your child, there are other options
such as tennis, badminton and golf that your child can try.
3. Dance LESSONS - Even among dance, there are so many
types to choose from that your child is sure to find the perfect fit.
Be it ballet, tap or modern dance is something that will help your
child develop physically and mentally as most forms of dance
require discipline and a strong body and it keeps them active as
nowadays there is very little physical activity at school.
4. Painting and Sketching GROUPS - Perhaps your child is
a blossoming artist and they will improve creative skills as the brain
will begin to develop the areas associated with creativity. Painting
and drawing can also help develop problem-solving skills.
5. Crafts, Pottery and Sculpting CLASSES - Working with
clay and creating something with their hands can give a child a
sense of satisfaction which builds confidence.
6. Martial Arts - Though the varied styles of mixed martial
arts such as judo, Taekwondo, karate and what these really teach
is discipline and how to control strength. Martial Arts teach selfcontrol
and self-discipline. They also help in socialisation skills and
physical development in your child.
7. Book Club - Book clubs are a great way for little bookworms
to have their fun and socialise with other book lovers. Many things
can be gained from a book club. Not only will the literature itself
teach your child a lot about the world, the way it works and so
much more, but it will also help them to develop their reading skills,
which will have a tremendous impact on their writing skills.
8. Drama ClubS - Your little drama kings and queens will love
this one as it is a fun and productive way to use up their dramatic
energies. Drama club helps your child to develop physical, artistic,
social and public speaking skills. It also helps to improve a their
memory and improvisation skills. Often, shy children who have a
talent for acting become more confident through drama club.
When you have a general idea of what your child wants, you can
do some research to see who provides these classes in your area
and then take the time to take your child to visit the place while
a class is in session and see if is a stimulating and comfortable
environment.
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