Out of school activities are extremely important for the physical and mental development of the child.
Additionally, a well formulated after school program can improve social skills which in turn will improve academic outcomes.
Out of school programs are of benefit both for younger kids and older children as these activities keep your child busy and since they tire out they get the essential rest at night after a good night’s sleep.
For older kids, being preoccupied with skill-based activities means dodging bad company and staying on the right path.
There are a number of out of school programs available,based on a child’s interest and skill. For the reference of parents,here are some good after school activities for children of all age groups for developing a new skill in your child.
Baking
Order a kid’s baking kit and let your child bake something delicious for you.Not only this activity provides culinary skills but creates a good bond with your child as well.
The science of baking will also educate them on understanding proportions,the precise measurement and how certain baking compositions result in particular results.
Plan a home movie night
There are countless programs available on TV,so give your child the responsibility of planning a family night. Let them choose any of the best movie channels on cable, along with snacks for fun time with the whole family.
Movies can transport the minds of the young and spark their imagination and create unforgettable memories. It will also teach your child to take responsibility and how to cater to the needs of others.
Making ice cream
All you need is ice cubes,milk, sugar and any ice cream flavor to give your children an incredible treat as a way to reward them once out of school.
This ice cream treat can be converted into a fun activity by teaching the child the art of making ice cream, simply by mixing ice cubes with a mixture of half and half sugar.
Cabbage experiment
By using some food coloring water and cabbage leaves,you can turn your child into a mini scientist in this fun-filled out of school activity.
To do this experiment put the different food colors in jars filled with water and place a leaf of cabbage in each of them.This experiment will reveal to your child how leaves absorb water.
Walk in the neighborhood
The American Academy of Pediatrics says that children of ages 6 and up need a minimum of 60 minutes of physical activity each day.Unfortunately,most kids can’t get it, therefore going on a walk is an easy health promoting activity for kids when they are out of school.
There is no need to venture far and start by simply going around the neighborhood or any other safe place to walk.Instead of walking the same street everyday,chart out different routes alongside streets.
Cook together
Preparing and sharing a meal is another healthy activity for kids and a good thing for kids out of school for a number of reasons.First of all,it promotes good nutritional skills,like reading, counting and following recipe directions while cooking.
Secondly,allowing the children to cook independently will help them to get an idea about new foods and prepare something which they will be proud of later on.
Ride a bike
Bike riding is a tried and tested way of staying active and healthy. Additionally, riding with family members can ensure biking in traffic free areas. To shake up things,you can alternate your daily walk with a bike ride.
