Extracurricular activity facts for kids
An extracurricular activity (sometimes called an extra activity) is something fun and educational you do outside of your regular school classes. These activities are usually things you choose to join, like a sports team, a club, or a volunteer group. They are a great way to learn new skills, make friends, and explore your interests!
Contents
What Are Extracurricular Activities?
Extracurricular activities are things students do that are not part of their normal school subjects. Think of them as extra learning or fun activities that happen after school, during lunch, or on weekends. They are often voluntary, meaning you choose to take part.
These activities can be social, helping you meet new people your age. They can also be philanthropic, which means they involve helping others or your community. Teachers and other school staff often help organize these activities. Sometimes, students even start their own clubs or groups, like a school newspaper or a coding club!
Why Are Extracurricular Activities Important?
Taking part in extra activities is really good for you! Here's why:
- Learn new skills: You can discover talents you didn't know you had, like playing an instrument, coding, or public speaking.
- Make friends: It's a great way to meet people who share your interests, even from different grades.
- Boost your grades: Studies show that students involved in activities often do better in their schoolwork.
- Build character: You learn about teamwork, leadership, responsibility, and how to manage your time.
- Explore interests: You can try out different hobbies and see what you really enjoy. This can even help you think about future careers!
- Look good for college: When you apply to colleges later, showing you were involved in activities makes your application stand out.
Types of Extracurricular Activities
There are many different kinds of extracurricular activities. Schools often offer a wide range, so there's usually something for everyone!
Sports and Athletics
Many schools have sports teams like soccer, basketball, swimming, or track and field. Joining a sports team helps you stay active, learn teamwork, and develop discipline.
Arts and Creative Activities
If you love to create, you might enjoy clubs like:
- Drama or theater groups
- School band or choir
- Art clubs
- Creative writing clubs
- Photography clubs
Academic and Skill-Based Clubs
These clubs help you learn more about specific subjects or develop useful skills:
- Debate club
- Science club or robotics club
- Math club
- Chess club
- Language clubs
- Computer or coding clubs
Community Service and Volunteering
These activities focus on helping others and making a positive difference:
- Environmental clubs
- Volunteer groups that help local charities
- Peer tutoring programs
Leadership and Student Government
If you like to lead and help make decisions, you might join:
- Student council
- School newspaper or yearbook committee
- Leadership groups
Images for kids
-
An after-school computer club in Armenia
See also
- In Spanish: Actividad extraescolar para niños
