by Daisy Peasblossom

Created on: June 05, 2010

Not all children enjoy after-school activities. There may be a wide range of reasons why a child may not wish to remain after school. The school may not offer an activity that is of interest to that particular child, the child may be being bullied at school and wish to be as far away from the premises as quickly as possible after school, there may be academic reasons why the child is not interested, or he or she may simply not be aware of the options available. Some children may need the after school time for homework or just to schlep around in their room and relax.

If you feel your child would truly benefit from an activity in addition to the regular school regime, first get a list of options from your local school. What is actually available may not match what you think or hope is available. Schools have had to do a lot of cutting back in the last few years. Extracurricular activities are often the first area to suffer, especially those that are not sports oriented.


Once you have the list, go over it with your child. Allow the child to make the choice. This isn't a career-make or break situation; your child will not be permanently damaged by choosing an activity that does not necessarily appeal to you. Since the primary benefit of school sponsored extra-curricular activities is social, finding one that appeals to your child is essential.

If the school does not offer opportunities your child finds appealing, check with the local parks department. Many city park boards offer educational and recreational programming for all ages. This program can range across a broad spectrum of interests from athletics to conservation to indoor activities such as chess or scrap booking.

While you are checking into activities, take a strong look at your child's academic record. One reason for children to be less than enthusiastic about extra-curricular activities is that most require specific levels of academic standing. If your child is struggling with grades, finding a tutor may be more to the point than finding recreational activities. If a child is spending a lot of emotional energy coping with poor academic comprehension, getting away from school may be the most important thing in the world to him or her. With that problem removed, his or her enthusiasm for other school events may increase dramatically.

Finally, parents should be aware that not all children enjoy socializing. For a shy child who prefers to interact with one or two people at a time, those hours after school can become infinitely precious. They are a time to relax, read, do art stuff, watch TV or play video games. Even children who enjoy activities with others need a certain amount of quiet time. It gives them the opportunity to become acquainted with themselves and to assess the world around them.

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