Encouraging your child to pursue a hobby outside of their academic commitments is important for a range of reasons. It helps them develop various key transferrable skills, allows them to build strong relationships with people they might not have otherwise met, and is beneficial for their mental and physical wellbeing. So, if you’re wondering what extra-curricular activity might be good for your child, here are five unique ideas, suggested by a private school in Surrey.
1. Martial Arts
If your child isn’t interested in a traditional sport like football or tennis but you’re keen for them to get some extra physical exercise, why not suggest karate or another type of martial arts? This is a great hobby because it teaches self-defence, but in a disciplined way. In many martial arts traditions, students must show respect and honour to their opponents. Martial arts also involve teamwork which can help youngsters who might be a bit shy.
2. Chess
Chess is great for improving concentration, problem solving and even certain mathematical abilities, like logical thinking. With that said, it’s not only a chance for your child to have fun, but it’s also an opportunity for them to develop skills that can support their academic progress.
Furthermore, chess is a fantastic way to promote equality. In a chess match, both players are equals, regardless of their age, education, gender, ethnicity, or anything else that might divide them in other circumstances.
3. Fishing
Fishing can be a great opportunity for children to bond with others, whether it be a parent, grandparent, or someone else altogether. It’s also a good way to help them develop their motor skills, hand-eye co-ordination, and cognitive development.
In addition, fishing is great for encouraging perseverance and patience; you can’t give up after just a few minutes. In fact, some fishermen spend hours waiting for that perfect catch. Perseverance is a skill that can transfer to other areas of your child’s life, like with regards to their school work.
4. Crafting
When it comes to crafting, there’s something for everyone, as it’s so multi-faceted. Your child could try knitting or crocheting, making cards or wreaths, painting with oils or water colours, to name but a few. Creative hobbies are great to do alone or with friends and could even lead to a fantastic career. They require patience and provide a deep sense of satisfaction once a project is complete, which is great for their self-esteem.
5. Collecting
Although this may seem random, keeping a collection is another fun hobby for youngsters that can teach them various skills, like organisation and patience. Your child could collect anything from coins and stamps to cards or seashells.
These are just a few ideas to get you started and there are countless more to choose from. Just make sure your child picks something that genuinely interests them, rather than something that you want them to pursue, otherwise it will just be a waste of everyone’s time.
