**Collaborative post**
Extra-curricular activities are vital for children if they are to grow into well-rounded adults. With so many clubs and associations to choose from, there’s almost no excuse for allowing your child to simply come home from school each day and not attend the odd meeting!
No matter what your child’s interest are, there will be something out there to suit them. Sometimes it’s just a matter of trying things out to see what fits best. This independent school in Enfield offers plenty of choice – there’s usually something to suit children of all ages.
Why extra-curricular-activities matter
One of the most important reasons for your child to engage in extra-curricular activities is socialisation. Whether your child attends an after-school activity offered by their school or something unrelated, the benefits are enormous.
Having a chance to learn new skills and have fun with other children outside of the classroom or playground offers a new perspective.
Your child may not shine academically, but perhaps they do on the sports field. Or in the arts or even gardening may be their thing!
An academic child can gain just as much through the rest and fun of sports or other activities. Meeting new friends and talking to children they might not usually is a great chance to expand their social circle.
What should my child do?
There are so many extra-curricular activities to choose from and if your child hasn’t got any ideas themselves, it can be tricky. Think about your child’s strengths and weaknesses. If they’re very slow at running, then an athletics club might not be the best decision! Yes, you may want them to build those skills but it may be better to do that in a less pressured environment.
If your child is shy, they may enjoy chess club or Scouts – more confident children tend to love drama and dance – but remember, these are not exclusively for confident children and if your child is keen, encourage them. Above all, keep pushing your child forward in their hobbies and as they grow, they will gain more experience and confidence than those children who don’t have the same opportunities.





