How to Balance Activities and Academics for Kids | Kindergarten Readiness

Cleveland Public Library is happy to support families with Kindergarten Readiness tips. Today’s get-ready-for kindergarten topic is How to Balance Extracurricular Activities and Academics.

Family life is busy. There are multiple activities pulling at our children’s attention. This can make it difficult to strike a perfect school-home life balance. These tips can help you and your child manage academics and extra-curricular activities.

Participate in extracurricular activities where all adults involved demonstrate the goal of academics first!

• Develop a schedule and mindset that prioritizes academics over activities meaning important academic-related tasks such as reading 10-15 minutes a day and completing homework should be done first.
• Choose wisely about extracurricular activities, and make sure it’s an activity that your child shows a true interest in.

THE BENEFITS OF EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Extracurricular activities can teach children how to collaborate, communicate effectively, manage time, de-stress, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and build confidence. These activities also teach new skills and help your child socialize, develop their passions and provide a positive and constructive outlet for their energy. Research shows that children involved in extracurricular activities tend to have better academics than children who spend free time using electronics and avoiding social situations.

While extracurricular activities are important, children and parents should understand that academics come first!

JOIN SCHOLARS ACADEMY

If you’re interested in more programs and information on Kindergarten Readiness, please sign up for the Library’s Young Scholar’s Academy.