You're not alone if you don't know what to do with the kids after school. Many families depend on television, computers and video games to keep the kids busy, but there are far more productive and fun ways for them to spend their time. Playing games, learning a new skill, or playing a backyard sport is a good way to get your kids active. In this article, we'll talk about some after-school activities that your kids can participate in, such as an after school club.
Since many schools are cutting back on sports programs, try to incorporate physical games into your child's after-school activities. Sports not only get their hearts pumping, but it teaches kids the importance of cooperation and team spirit. Rope jumping contests, relay races, wrestling matches, Frisbee throws, or games of basketball are all popular options. To encourage kids to participate, pick up some activity books and fun toys, or arts and crafts items from a dollar store and give them away as prizes. Parents can take turns supervising the programs.
Arts and kids crafts can introduce children to a wide range of subjects like art, music, science and nature. You'll be able to find countless ideas on the Internet. To teach your kids how to tell time, have them make clock-face place mats with moving pipe cleaner parts. All you need is some construction paper, a marker, and some pipe cleaners. Want to share your love of gardening? Have the kids grow a bean sprout in a paper cup. Or, combine cooking and science by making homemade ice cream!
Filling kids with nutritious food is as important to child development as making sure they get enough physical activity. However, getting them to eat what's good for them can be mission impossible! It helps to have your children participate in building a healthy menu for the family. Homemade granola bars are a healthy treat and making them teaches kids how to follow a recipe and introduces them to measurements. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of quick cooking rolled oats, a can of sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup of wheat germ, 3/4 cup natural bran, 1/2 cup of oat bran and 1/2 cup of melted margarine. If you wish, you can also add a handful of raisins, nuts, shredded coconut, or your favorite dried fruit. For a sweeter treat, add chocolate chips. Press the mixture into a metal baking sheet and bake in a 375 degree over for about 15-20 minutes. When it's cool, cut it into bars and serve with milk or juice.
After-school activities are an essential part of a child's personal development. It teaches them skills that they may not learn in the classroom, encourages them to develop socially by forming friendships with other children, and it may also give you the chance to spend more time together. Speak to your child about subjects that interest them and find a project that develops that interest. Whether it's sports, music, the arts or science, getting your child involved with a variety of programs outside of school is sure to enhance their life.
