...connecting community needs
and University resources...

Topics

• Agriculture
• Community
• Environment
• Family
• Garden
• Youth

Workshops

Find convenient educational offerings and e-learning

The Extension Store

Shop Extension for educational materials

Information for Parents and Caregivers of Teens

Extra-Curricular Activities for Youth and Teens

Kevin Fenton and Karen Ihnen
Reviewed by Colleen Gengler, Extension Educator in Family Relations

The right after school activity can get your son or daughter more involved and excited than ever before. It can give him/her a sense of belonging and confidence. So how do you pick the right one? It really comes down to two simple questions.

First, what is your child or teen interested in? Recreational activities and school extra-curricular should first and foremost be fun. It's great for a person to challenge him/herself, but picking an activity just because it sounds impressive seldom makes anyone happy. And, while commitment is always to be admired, allow the young person to get out of a bad choice.

Second, does the activity balance competition, cooperation, and fun with other experiences such as with family and school? For instance, when your child is thinking about a sport, consider time commitment and the coach's attitude about winning versus “playing one’s best”. But, sports aren’t the only option. Most schools offer various activities.

After school activities do not have to be school related. The important thing is to find something that builds on your child’s interests and abilities. For example, if your child or teen likes to write, encourage him/her to keep a journal, write stories or publish a neighborhood newspaper. Look for opportunities throughout the community such as 4-H, scouts or faith based groups. Consider cultural opportunities that might be available through museums or community festivals.

Recreational activities and school extra-curricular can make youth more excited about school. Out of school activities have the additional benefit of contributing to children’s success in school but only if there is a balance. When overdone, outside activities can tire children and teens and be a distraction from schoolwork, family and downtime. Downtime is needed to allow youth to think about skills learned in activities and to foster creativity.