Steemit Engagement Challenge / S16/W4 - "Children Vs Extracurricular Activities"

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How can extracurricular activities help children's physical and mental growth?

I firmly believe that extracurricular activities are essential to promote the physical and mental development of children. When I participate in sporting activities such as football or swimming I personally see the benefits for my physical health. By practicing these sports regularly I strengthen my muscles, improve my coordination and increase my overall fitness. These activities also allow me to release stress and energy which contributes to my mental well being.

Additionally, when I engage in artistic activities like music or painting I notice a stimulation of my creativity and an increase in my self expression. Creating music or creating a work of art allows me to channel my emotions and develop my cognitive skills. I find these activities to be extremely beneficial for my mental growth, as they encourage me to think critically, solve problems and explore new ideas. Ultimately, I believe that extracurricular activities are a valuable way for children to develop their bodies and minds in a balanced and fulfilling way.

Do today's children like extracurricular activities, or are they forced to participate by their parents?

I believe that today's children's preference for extracurricular activities can vary greatly. Personally, I have found that some children are intrinsically motivated to participate in these activities finding pleasure in the learning and social interactions they provide. For these children, extracurricular activities are a source of joy and fulfillment and they choose them willingly.

However, I also notice that there are instances where children may feel pressured or coerced by their parents to participate in certain activities. I have seen situations where parental expectations or their child's developmental desires can play a dominant role in children s participation in extracurricular activities. In these cases children may feel pressured to participate in activities that may not align with their natural interests or preferences.

Is extracurricular activity necessary for children?

I believe that extracurricular activities are not strictly necessary for every child but they provide many benefits that enrich their overall development. By participating in these activities, children have the opportunity to explore various interests which they might not necessarily be able to explore in a traditional school setting. For example, a child may discover a passion for music, dance or theater through specialized extracurricular activities. Additionally, these activities allow children to develop important social skills by interacting with their peers in an environment different from the classroom.

Additionally, extracurricular activities help build children's self confidence. By succeeding in a field they are passionate about, children gain self esteem and confidence. This can have a positive impact on their academic performance and overall attitude towards learning. Additionally , extracurricular activities teach valuable life lessons such as teamwork, responsibility, perseverance and time management. These skills are essential for long term success in adult life.

Which are the best extracurricular activities for today's children?

I believe the best extracurricular activities for today's kids are those that match their interests, strengths, and developmental needs. Sports activities, such as soccer, swimming or martial arts, provide an excellent opportunity to improve physical fitness, develop teamwork and instill discipline. These activities can also help children channel their energy in a positive way and learn the importance of perseverance and surpassing themselves.

On the other hand, creative activities such as music, dance or theater promote artistic expression, stimulate the imagination and build self-confidence. They allow children to explore their creativity and develop skills that go beyond the artistic realm, such as stress management and effective communication.

Additionally, I believe that activities focused on 21st century skills, such as coding clubs, robotics, or community service projects, are extremely beneficial. They help children develop problem-solving, critical thinking and collaboration skills, which are essential in the modern world. Additionally, community service projects teach children empathy and social responsibility, helping them become engaged and compassionate citizens.

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Thank you very much for reading, it's time to invite my friends @hamzayousafzai, @suboohi, @ngoenyi to participate in this contest.

Best Regards,
@kouba01