The benefits of after-school activities go beyond simply keeping children busy after the school day ends. Sports, art, music, clubs, and other activities give children opportunities to explore their interests, build relationships, develop new skills, and gain confidence outside the classroom. For families in Gaithersburg, after-school activities can be a valuable way for children to explore new interests while building skills that support their growth and development.
At the same time, children need time to rest, play, and spend time with family. The goal is not to fill every afternoon with activities, but to find options that add something positive to a child’s routine without creating unnecessary stress.
After-school activities give children opportunities to learn and practice skills in different settings from the classroom. They can also help children discover interests they may not have an opportunity to explore during the school day.
Depending on the activity, children may develop:
Most importantly, children can learn by doing something they genuinely enjoy.
Trying something new gives children opportunities to practice, make mistakes, and improve over time.
A child learning to swim may become more comfortable in the water. A child joining an art class may become more confident sharing their creations. A child playing on a sports team may become more comfortable working with others.
These small experiences can help children see that they are capable of learning new things.
Many after-school activities involve working or playing with other children.
Sports, clubs, dance classes, and group projects can give children opportunities to:
These experiences can be especially helpful for children who may need additional opportunities to practice social skills outside the classroom.
The best activity depends on the child’s age, personality, and interests. Children are more likely to enjoy and stay engaged with activities that they have some interest in choosing.
Sports provide a fun way for children to stay active while developing coordination and teamwork.
Some options include:
Children do not need to participate competitively to benefit. Recreational activities can provide plenty of opportunities for movement and social interaction.
Creative activities give children a chance to experiment and express themselves.
Consider:
These activities can help children explore their creativity while developing patience and confidence in their own ideas.
Explore ideas in: Creative Learning Activities for Preschoolers.
Some children are especially motivated by activities connected to their interests.
Options might include:
Interest-based activities can help children develop skills while connecting with other children who enjoy similar things.
Not necessarily. Educators in Gaithersburg find that one of the most important parts of creating a healthy after-school routine is leaving room for children to relax and play without a schedule.
After spending much of the day following classroom routines, children may benefit from having an afternoon when they can:
Unstructured play gives children the freedom to make their own choices and use their imagination.
You can learn more in: Balancing Homework, Activities, and Free Time for Kids.
More activities are not necessarily better. A child’s schedule should leave enough time for sleep, meals, homework, family time, play, and relaxation.
Parents can consider whether their child:
If a child is constantly tired, overwhelmed, or no longer enjoying activities they once liked, it may be worth reducing the schedule.
Whenever possible, involve children in choosing their activities.
A child may be interested in soccer one season and want to try art or swimming the next. Giving children opportunities to explore different interests allows them to discover what they enjoy rather than feeling obligated to continue an activity simply because they started it.
The benefits of after-school activities are greatest when children have opportunities to learn, explore, and have fun without feeling overscheduled. Whether a child enjoys sports, art, music, clubs, or another activity, the experience can help build confidence, social skills, creativity, and independence.
At the same time, children need downtime and unstructured play. A balanced after-school routine gives children opportunities to explore their interests while still leaving room to rest, spend time with family, and simply enjoy being a kid.
For more ideas about supporting children outside of the classroom, explore:
MCCA has been recognized by the Maryland State Legislature for its commitment to Montgomery County issued a quality programs and special needs child care Proclamation in 2016 to MCCA for its commitment to Montgomery County child care for more than 50 years. MCCA was also selected as a 2018 nonprofit finalist for a MOXIE Award for boldness and innovation
MCCA is the oldest nonprofit licensed child care provider in Montgomery County and started its work in 1968 as a Community Action Project of the War on Poverty. Recognizing the need for quality child care programs in their neighborhoods, a group of local activists formed an association to establish centers in Montgomery County that would serve a diverse population and establish high standards for child care. Now, more than 50 years later, MCCA’s dedicated and expertly trained staff continue their tradition of providing high quality child care and play-based education for children.
Families with school aged children who can afford their child care expenses during the school year often struggle to afford the all-day programs they need when school is out for the summer. The Richard Krampf Summer Adventures Scholarship Fund was established to help provide children a safe and stimulating place to spend their weeks when school is out. Please contact an MCCA Director for details on how to apply.
