Extracurricular activities are a great way to earn high school credits, round out their education, and improve their college application. Even if your child isn’t interested in going to college, extracurricular activities can teach life skills. (think babysitting training, sewing classes, etc…)
Homeschoolers have a huge advantage when it comes to extracurricular activities. They aren’t hampered by school schedules and since you can incorporate activities into the curriculum, kids that are serious about a sport or activity to have extra time to dedicate to their activities.
Just remember, most kids don’t become professional soccer players, musicians, or ice skaters… so everything in moderation, right?
Public School
Depending on your state, your child might be able to participate in sports and activities at the public school. Now if you homeschool because you want to avoid public school influences this is probably not the best option. But if your child has a chance at a college/professional career in a certain activity this might work for your family.
County Sponsored Activities
My kids have always played sports in city or county leagues. Not only do cities and counties have sports teams, often they have choir, art classes, and tech classes. Usually county leagues are inexpensive and a great way to you to connect with your community while your kids play soccer or sing.
Private Lessons
Private lessons are the most expensive option for many extracurricular activities but also provide the most flexibility. Instructors will sometimes give discounts for siblings or for scheduling lessons during off hours. Consider bartering for a discount or free lessons to help keep extracurricular activities from busting the budget.
For the homeschooler, extracurricular activities can easily be integrated into their curriculum. My daughter’s piano lessons earned her a fine art credit, and my son’s soccer has given him two PE credits in high school already.
Summer programs and camps are also a great way to round out their education and earn high school credits. Both of my high schoolers have participated in TeenPact and benefitted greatly from the experience.
Don’t overlook the importance of extracurricular activities to help balance your child’s education. Even if they don’t end up the next Tim Tebow, these activities can help teach teamwork, sportsmanship, and allow them to interact with people from all walks of life.
The 10 Days Series is organized by iHomeschool Network, a collaboration of outstanding homeschool bloggers who connect with each other and with family-friendly companies in mutually beneficial projects.
educator says
We use County sponsored activities, and the public libraries are offering some things as well.