![20240321_092204.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmWCnDXfyYeECok8mEaBA7GdJEx7LMn76MrR2f82W3Jeq1/20240321_092204.jpg) (Edited by PixelLab) INTRODUCTION| -----| ***When including extracurricular activities for children, we prepare their minds for opportunities that shapes their physical, mental and social growth that goes beyond classroom's performance.*** How can extracurricular activities help children's physical and mental growth
Extracurricular activities goes a long way in offering a diverse range of experiences that goes beyond the academic curriculum. This provides opportunities for the children to explore and develop new skills and also build up social connections. ***Physical Growth*** : Children engaging in physical activities like physical exercises helps in improving cardiovascular health and improved immune function. When they participate in sports and other external activities, their physical movement and coordination is stimulated to improve their overall health and wellness. ![IMG-20240321-WA0006.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmQaYYkn7tWSg6Txfo5m9Cb5HzqGUC5kyzJ3qeeCsxDMQ8/IMG-20240321-WA0006.jpg) [Pixabay](https://pixabay.com/photos/desert-children-sand-dune-playing-7008952/) ***Mental Growth***: When they engage in creative activities like music, coding or art, it enhances their problem-solving skills which promotes creativity and encourages critical thinking in them. ![IMG-20240321-WA0008.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQma2hyp4tVeAo5mDmiBtPthJpVCrSxmbPvfdQS6TEZrZPG/IMG-20240321-WA0008.jpg) [Pixabay](https://pixabay.com/photos/microphone-girl-scene-performance-1804148/) Do today's children like extracurricular activities, or are they forced to participate by their parents?
Most of the times, children develops genuine interest and enthusiasm when it comes to extracurricular activities. For some children, parental pressure may force them to participate in various areas beyond academics due to highly competitive society we find ourselves in today's world. However, it's important to strike some balance between encouraging a child to participate in extracurricular activities and compelling them to stand up for themselves. Allowing them to explore their interests and giving them the freedom over their preference will allow them grow in whatever skill they participate, in their own pace. Is extracurricular activity necessary for children?
Extracurricular involvement in children is important for their personal development. It provides practical experiences that boost social skills which helps the children in learning teamwork and leadership which are important aspects of their social development. Also, it serves as a platform for children to showcase their talents and strengths outside the shores of the classroom. All these activities they participate together contributes to their sense of identity and purpose in life. Which are the best extracurricular activities for today's children?
Allowing children participate in extracurricular activities that aligns with their interests and passion is often very important. We also have relevant and popular ones that helps them improve their social abilities, which includes; ![IMG-20240321-WA0009.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmQ56A7jxQDsvnERxJEtd66tE8qBPJqkfjaohy6UGHWoSe/IMG-20240321-WA0009.jpg) [Pixabay](https://pixabay.com/photos/child-soccer-playing-kick-613199/) ***Sports***: Allowing children participate in sports such as football, basketball or swimming promotes their physical fitness, teamwork spirit and discipline. ***Arts and Crafts***: Children can indulge in Painting, drawing, sculpting or even pottery because it boosts their level of creativity and self- expression in them. ***Music / Dancing***: Children can be allowed to participate or learning how to play a musical instrument or taking dance lessons. ***Coding Activities***: Allowing children participate in Coding lessons or other science related projects boosts their problem-solving abilities and innovation. ***Language and Literature***: Parents should always allow their children participate in book clubs or language classes to help them cultivate some sense of literacy skills and love of learning. CONCLUSION| -----| ***Overall, the extracurricular activities that fuels a child's curiosity and passion is often the best because it allows them to thrive and flourish in their unique journey of growth and self discovery.*** I will like to invite @josepha, @sahmie and @yancar to participate in this contest.