Afterschool programs are a great way to provide productive learning time for children after the school day is over. Children can participate in programs at the school, such as drama or football, or they can take part in activities outside of the school, such as Scouts and martial arts. These programs are especially beneficial to kids with learning and attention issues. Read on to learn about why it’s so important for kids to participate in programs after the school day is over!
Kids programs…
Build Better Social Skills
Kids participating in programs after school tend to feel more secure and confident. These kids are more likely to join in on a game or strike up a conversation with other children. Among other programs, karate is a great way to foster support, respect, and cooperation.
Build Friendship and Foster Belonging
If the program isn’t run by the school district, children have the opportunity to get to know different kids other than the ones they see at school. Not only does it mean they won’t have to worry about cliques, but they can also make new friends!
Provide a Safe, Supervised Environment
Unfortunately, kids with learning and attention problems are more likely to engage in risky behavior. However, keeping the kids busy with a positive outlet can prevent them from engaging in bad behavior, plus it can help them do better in school and over time, may even lead to fewer behavioral problems.
Build Confidence
Because the stakes are likely not as high, kids with learning and attention issues tend to find afterschool programs more forgiving and, therefore, more enjoyable. These kids are more willing to try new things and take on more significant challenges in afterschool programs, leading to better self-esteem.
Build Better Focus
In some programs, kids can also improve their focus. With martial arts, kids are doing one thing at a time. Younger kids and kids with ADD may only do one thing for a few seconds, but for those few seconds, that’s all they’re focusing on.
Programs such as martial arts can also help your child focus in on goals and have the determination to succeed. The more and more goals your child reaches, the more ambitious he or she will become.
Afterschool programs can also help children learn how to pay better attention. Children can be taught to look into the eyes of the person that is speaking to them to show that they are listening.
Improve Grades
Did you know that children who take part in afterschool programs have improved reading and math grades? Good afterschool programs can also improve their classroom behavior, attendance, academic goals, and reduce the likelihood of dropping out.
Improve Mental and Physical Health
In today’s world, it’s so easy for kids not to exercise. Life can be busy and stressful with school, homework, and other everyday stressors, and while it’s probably tempting for your child to sit down on the couch and turn the TV on, it’s actually better for them to get up and moving. Having a healthy outlet to release stress is essential, and afterschool programs can provide that. These programs can be a fun, positive way to destress by providing your child with a distraction and even exercise.
Afterschool sports and even other programs such as martial arts are fantastic forms of exercise since your child will be active the entire time. This will help them maintain a healthy weight, promote positive body image, and build the foundation for healthy exercise habits in the future.
Afterschool programs can also promote positive emotional and mental wellbeing. One sad truth is that many children are bullied in school. However, afterschool programs can help children overcome their fears and anxieties by building more self-confidence and self-respect. In martial arts, for example, your child will gain the confidence they need to stand their ground against bullies and take pride in themselves and who they are.
Check out this article on the health benefits of martial arts!
Are Just Plain Fun!
Afterschool programs are a fun way for your child to learn, grow, and increase their overall happiness. Physical programs, such as martial arts, can help improve your child’s energy, alertness, and confidence, all while in a safe, supervised environment. Your child can work at his or her own pace, making new friends and completing achievements in the process. The best way to encourage your child to participate in an afterschool activity is to show them how much fun they’ll have. Kids want to do things they enjoy, so help them find the right afterschool activity that’s right for them!
