subject: Effective after school activities [print this page] Sure, you want an activity that junior enjoysSure, you want an activity that junior enjoys. But, we reallycannot afford to waste time on pleasure for pleasure's sake, do we? Thereneeds to be a grain of gold somewhere in there. Given below is a list ofcharacteristics that any good after school activity must possess.
Clarity in objectives and goals is the first important thing. What doesthe course offer? How does it propose to achieve the results? How manykids make up a batch? Ask questions. After all, when you are dishing outthe dough, you really need to understand what you are getting in return.
A good after school activity will provide lots of opportunities for theyoung to increase their level of understanding of complex concepts. Thisis true of recreational activities too. Learning to pitch a ball, or danceto a tune - regardless of the activity involved, the child should beencouraged to grapple with and conquer new concepts. This not only keepsboredom at bay by challenging the child, but also builds up hisself-confidence. Development of academic, personal and social skills isone of the prime aims of an after school activity. As the skills develop,the child's self-esteem also increases.
After school activities are all about boosting a child's sense ofcompetence. Good and effective after school activities promotes theresilience of youth and encourages them to grow stronger, be it mentally,emotionally or physically.
Safety is one of the first requirements of an after school activity. Thestaff should be qualified, adequate and alert. Never put your child in aprogram where safety is a matter of accident instead of a matter ofpriority. The staff should be friendly and should have a positiverelationship with the child. Therefore, the program should haveprofessional and trained staff that loves to interact with children. Theprogram should maintain a cooperative and supportive attitude and astructured environment. Participation and collaboration as opposed tocompetition and antagonism must be encouraged.
Some programs involve the children in planning activities and makingdecisions. Adults often forget to get the opinion of their children. Bygiving the children an opportunity to voice their opinion, programs become fun activities that children are motivated to participate in. Young people thrive when they are listened to, respected and allowed to contribute their mite.
Routine evaluations are an important part of after school programs. If the child does not benefit from a class, don't waste time beingover-optimistic. Try something new.
Acting classes can be a good after school activity, they could attend acting school or drama school.
You are now ready to look for the perfect after school activity for yourchild. But don't let us forget that having fun is also an important partof growing up. The child deserves a few hours of pure delight. Remember, all work and no play,
