The words 'after school activities' are often misconceived. Some might feel that since these activities are after school, they are of little importance. Those who think so could not be more wrong. According to research, children gain some of their most important skills from after school programs. It has been noticed that children who do not perform extracurricular activities are generally slow and less vibrant.
The after school activities must be implemented in an environment that is as disciplined and as efficient as that in school. Normally, these environments are where children acquire essential skill goal setting and time management. Time management is a crucial skill to learn. Children must experience the discipline in staying on task until it’s completed, to appreciate the gratitude of accomplishing the mission in the allotted time. The best programs are those that are both recreational and educational, especially activities that are age-appropriate and integrate with what happens in school.
After school program s helps strengthen children’s interests. They can also help them discover their natural abilities for some activities. Children will need a good collection of skills in addition to their academic achievement in order to succeed in this dynamic world.
In addition to the acquired educational and disciplinary benefits of these programs, they tend to also keep children off the streets and out of trouble while parents are still at work. According to Gottfredson, Gerstenblith, Soule, Womer, and Lu, "Children and adolescents who are not supervised by an adult for extended periods of time are at elevated risk for engaging in problem behavior".
Good after school programs keep children busy, active, healthier, and distracted of bad peer influence.
