Ideas to Build Skills and Knowledge
All parents want their children to have a well-rounded education that includes exposure to various activities and opportunities. After-school activities are a great way to provide this type of enrichment. Still, it can be hard to know where to start, especially if you’re struggling to find good options for your kids. Luckily, we have some great alternative activity ideas that will provide your child with out-of-the-box opportunities. Let’s dive right into it.
Arts and Crafts
There are many reasons to learn a new craft as an afterschool activity for kids. From knitting and sewing to drawing and collaging, there are so many options for every kind of child out there. Parent Circle reports that engaging in art and crafts activities improves motor skills, memory, and cognitive ability. Not to mention, it’s a great stress reliever and can be an excellent way for your kids to build skills while still relaxing.
Imparting STEM and Coding Knowledge
As the world progresses, it is becoming increasingly important for kids to have coding and STEM skills. One of the best ways to impart tech knowledge to kids is through interactive games and activities. Harvard reports that by making the learning process fun and engaging, kids are more likely to retain the information and skills they learn. A great way to do this is to enroll your child in a coding boot camp or to join an afterschool STEM group so they can learn with like-minded peers. You can also have them consult resources like Code Profs for coding and troubleshooting tips.
Blogging
There are many benefits of blogging for kids. It can help them develop writing skills, learn to communicate with others, and express themselves in a creative outlet. Also, blogging can provide kids with a way to connect with like-minded individuals worldwide and learn about different cultures and viewpoints. Be sure to let your child know the importance of consistency in blogging – the more regularly they keep at it, the more likely they will get recognition for their work. This activity is also a great way to learn about essential skills like social media management and optimization, which can come in handy down the line.
Fostering Teen Entrepreneurship
Fostering teen entrepreneurship can be a great way to get your child interested in business and finances. In addition, it’s also a productive way of spending time after school. If your teen shows interest in entrepreneurship, try to encourage them to spend some more time learning how to hone this skill by starting their own business. When doing so, try to play to your teen’s interests. For example, they could start their own Etsy business selling arts and crafts if they love art. Perhaps they can lean into the dropship model or build a babysitting empire.
Either way, teach your teen the necessities when starting a new company, like writing a business plan, setting up a website, and creating a legal structure. If they want to learn about forming an LLC and formation services, they can find out more here.
Gardening
Gardening is an excellent activity for children to take part in. It teaches them about the process of growing plants and how to care for them and gets them outside in the fresh air. Teaching your child the skill of gardening also imparts essential values like compassion for other creatures and plants, kindness, and empathy.
Finding a suitable activity that stimulates and engages your child is the greatest gift you can give them. Not only will they have a hobby for life, but activities like gardening, coding, and learning how to start a business can also transition into fulfilling careers or great strategies to boost mental health!
Listen to the That’s Total Mom Sense podcast for intriguing interviews about kids, family, health, entrepreneurship, and more!
