What Are the Benefits of Extracurricular Activities for Children?

There are many ways children can benefit from participating in after-school activities. Whether athletics, martial arts, drama, music or art, children can gain skills through extracurricular activities that will help them succeed in school and life. Support your child in their exploration of these activities and see them reap the benefits.

Meet People and Make Friends

• Extracurricular activities provide children with the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. They can meet other children and adults with whom they will develop life-long friendships. The more people they learn to relate to, the more successful they will be at making friends and working with others in the future.

Gain Skills and Confidence

• Children can learn new skills and gain confidence in themselves and their abilities by participating in extracurricular activities. The skills they gain can be physical, cognitive or emotional, depending on the types of activities in which they participate. They can improve motor learning, expand knowledge and gain appreciation for other cultures and art.

Succeed in School

• Research shows that students who participate in extracurricular activities are more likely to be successful in school, getting higher grades than other children. Studies also show that children who participate in extracurricular activities are more likely to go to college, according to Rachel Hollrah.

Cure Boredom

• Children and teens who participate in extracurricular activities are less likely to experience depression and feelings of hopelessness. Participation in these types of activities can also help children and teens avoid using drugs and alcohol as well as encourage them to becoming involved with volunteer projects.