 Most
parents realize that the time their children spend in school is only a
relatively small part of their day, and that their education extends
well beyond the six or so hours they spend in the classroom.
While
enrolling their children in after school programs can at times seem
like a program coordinator's nightmare, parents usually see after
school activities as opportunities to broaden their children's
horizons, and provide more specific structured activities that schools
are not equipped to provide. Often, after school activities also
provide much needed physical activity and social interaction for
children.
Carefully chosen after school activities can give a
child new insights and allow him or her to develop new skills, talents
and interests they might otherwise not have the chance to experience.
For
instance, music is one of the most popular after school activities.
Learning to play an instrument like the piano is something children
have done for generations. When done correctly learning an instrument
teaches an appreciation for art as well as providing an opportunity to
experience performing in front of others.
Learning an instrument
also gives children an insight into music that goes beyond just
listening to it passively. This applies to playing in a musical group,
singing in a choir or ensemble, learning to dance, or being involved in
drama. All of these activities involve learning to appreciate and
develop an esthetic point of view. They also require mastering an
often-complicated set of skills, and they often take place in a group
setting where everyone is working together towards a common goal.
This
illustrates the point that after school programs are often designed to
develop talents or skills that are too specialized to be taught during
regular school time. Schools are structured to provide grounding in
basic skills rather than specialized ones. Educators look at the whole
curriculum and try to decide on a core that should apply to everyone.
But there is simply not enough time or resources to provide specialized
activities for all children.
This is the role filled by music
teachers, scouting groups, and recreational sports leagues, along with
an almost unlimited number of others providing after school activities
for children of all ages.
Of course there are other very
practical benefits of a child being involved in organized after school
activities. For instance, just keeping children busy doing something
constructive is often a parent's biggest challenge. Playing on a soccer
or baseball team keeps children occupied when they might otherwise be
susceptible to destructive habits such as drugs or alcohol.
Many
of these activities also provide much needed physical exercise. During
the last two decades there has been an alarming increase in the number
of obese and overweight children. Some surveys put it as high as 15% of
all children under 16 in the U.S.
It is hard to dispute the fact
that children are eating more unhealthy food and getting much less
exercise than was the case just one generation ago. Any after school
activity that takes them away from the television or computer -- even
for a few hours a week -- and provides a constructive alternative to
inactivity is a good thing.
Regardless of the activity, if it is
challenging and provides enjoyment along with a sense of accomplishment
it will enhance a child's self-esteem, broaden their interests, and
increase their awareness of the multitude of different opportunities
that exist for the future.
By: Rick Hendershot
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