After-School Activities: Boosting Children’s Growth and Well-Being

Children often return from school or daycare tired from hours of academic work or free play. Yet, they carry a strong desire for their parents’ attention—whether to play, read stories, watch screens, or even help in the kitchen.

Dr. Walaa Al-Safti, Professor of Education and Child Psychology, recommends using this time for a variety of activities that are educational, recreational, creative, and social.

1. Academic and Educational Activities

Review and complete homework.
Participate in science and math clubs.
Attend programming and robotics workshops to develop tech skills.
Learn new languages or practice a foreign language.

Benefit: Develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic performance.

2. Creative and Artistic Activities

Drawing, coloring, sculpting, jewelry-making, and design.
Music: listening, attending performances, or acting in short plays.

Benefit: Enhances creativity, self-expression, and fine motor skills.

3. Physical and Sports Activities

Team sports: soccer, basketball, track and field.
Individual movement: walking, running, or playing in the park or gym.
Structured brain games or video games with time limits.

Benefit: Improves physical fitness, overall health, and self-discipline.

4. Cooking and Community Service

Help prepare simple meals.
Participate in volunteer campaigns or visit care homes.

Benefit: Encourages responsibility, teamwork, and the value of giving.

5. Free Play and Family Interaction

Allow time for unstructured play or reading.
Discuss the day’s experiences and school events with parents.

Benefit: Strengthens emotional bonds with family and enhances self-expression.

Benefits of After-School Activities

Time Management: Flexible schedules help children understand the value of time.
Encouraging Interests: Expands horizons and supports the child’s unique skills.
Parental Support: Spending time with children fosters trust and emotional security.
Building Self-Confidence: Praise and encouragement reinforce the child’s sense of value.
Promoting Independence: Allowing children to handle tasks on their own reduces dependence.
Developing Talents: Providing tools and opportunities to explore hobbies and skills.

Practical Guidelines for Parents

Give children the chance to experiment, make mistakes, and learn.
Assign responsibilities and reward achievements to reinforce confidence.
Encourage social interactions and group play; intervene only when necessary.
Let children express opinions and feelings without fear.
Respect their choices in clothing, toys, and books.
Avoid overprotecting, which may reduce self-confidence.
Show love and appreciation, and never ridicule or belittle the child.

Conclusion:

Balancing after-school time with learning, creativity, physical activity, play, and family engagement promotes children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. It also strengthens family bonds, fosters responsibility, and builds confidence and independence, creating a nurturing and safe environment for children to thrive.