Wellbeing

Why after school activities are beneficial for children

Why children should participate in after school activities - part 2

There are lots of after school clubs and activities to choose from.

In our last newsletter, we looked at five benefits of children participating in after school activities. These included:

learning something new
supporting their learning at school
expanding their social group
get all-important exercise
sleeping better

In this newsletter, we will look at the other four benefits.

Six: Learn about team-work

Teamwork is a vital life skill. After-school clubs and activities are often team-based (think sports like netball, football, or being in a choir) and will help them learn to cooperate with their peers. This learning will transfer into the classroom and support their group work.

Seven: They meet inspiring role models

Teachers are often positive role models for children, but after-school clubs give them the chance to meet other adults of different ages and backgrounds. Sports trainers and club leaders and helpers can become valuable mentors for children, especially teenagers.

Spending time glued to the screen is not healthy

Eight: They’re not glued to a screen

We all worry about children spending too much time watching TV, playing on their devices or looking at their phones (a primary school no-no). Children who go to after-school clubs are less likely to be ‘addicted’ to screens. It’s not just the time spent at a club that keeps them away from their group chats or gaming – it’s because, with another interest, they’re more likely to spend their time practising than looking at their devices.

Nine: They have better self-esteem

Studies show that children who do sports and physical activity are often more confident. Clubs help children develop self-esteem because they learn to believe in themselves, are encouraged by their club leaders – and also learn to accept constructive criticism.

I thought I'd ask a few teachers about their favourite after school activities when they were kids.

Ms Moran played tennis when she was younger. She learned about teamwork as well as developed individual skills. Miss JM participated in drama, piano and chess. She liked meeting new people and developing confidence as well as new interests. Miss Newbound started calisthenics when she was 6 and is still doing it now! She loved the challenge of learning new things and having fun at the same time. She has made lifelong friends by participating in after school activities when she was younger. She feels strong and fit and confident.

Connie Drossaert

Wellbeing Leader