It can be difficult to be a parent these days. There are so many chores and tasks that keep popping up that absolutely must be done. It is important though to make time to become involved with your children’s activities after school. No matter what they are, sports, drama, dance, robotics, or debate, making sure you are available for these events is vital to.
Show Support
Even if your child is a second-stringer, showing up at and assisting with his events will give him the support he needs to try his best. Knowing you are cheering him on or even coaching his team will make him feel special even if his team doesn’t win or his project is not among the highest ranked.
Provide Encouragement
Your presence will spark them to do their very best. It may mean the difference between a winning point or a dismal failure. Your child will be in top form if he knows you are right there to guide and assist.
Give Advice
After all is said and done, congratulate your youngster on a job well done. Whether it be a three-act play or a rousing football game, you can always supply your child with objective advice and comments. Do it in a tactful manner as he will otherwise take it as judgment or criticism. On the flip side, if you don’t know very much about the sport or activity he is in or are new at assisting with this activity, it may be best to leave all advice and instruction to the professionals.
Gain Quality Family Time
While the student is out there and engaged in his activity or sport, the entire family will be gathered together and interacting. This is a fantastic way to bond with family members, even though the student will not be among them while playing, performing, or presenting. Make a point to always have some type of family activity such as dinner, a snack, or even just dessert after every event to encourage this family togetherness.
Give Back to the Community
Assisting with these extracurricular activities is a great way to stay active and give back to the youth of your area. You never know, you could become so involved that you may decide to go back to school for your coaching master’s degree.
Attending your youngster’s extracurricular activities can benefit the entire family. Make a calendar and place it in a visible location so all family members can arrange their schedules around these functions.