After School Programs Can Help Improve Your Child’s Social Skills

We’ve listed programs/activities that may help boost your child’s confidence level, and improve their social and learning skills.

---

Affiliate link. We earn a small commission when you click and purchase.

Credit: Canva

After eighteen months of virtual and hybrid learning, students finally returned to in-person sessions for the new school year. As many older students were eager to reunite with their friends and return to the classroom, some younger students may still have difficulty adjusting to a new school setting. While older students are used to in-person learning, some kindergarteners and first graders are probably still finding it harder to adjust because they are experiencing it for the first time.

Children became accustomed to a “new normal” life at home, and what may seem like a “back to normal” life for many of us, just isn’t so for some children who spent a full school year learning at home. Virtual learning was a comfortable environment because students were learning in a familiar space.

In-person learning can possibly cause anxiety amongst the little ones. Younger students are learning to adjust to a new classroom structure and adapt to new cultural differences. Perhaps going into a place with new rules, a new routine, and new authority has been a challenge. Plus, trying to build friendships with new people may seem like an overwhelming experience for a child who is shy.

Affiliate Link. We earn a small commission when you click and purchase. Thank you.

If your child is struggling with social and separation anxiety, they may still have a tougher time making new friends. They may be experiencing rejection or feel excluded, and don’t know how to approach other kids. Furthermore, lack of confidence can affect their social skills and learning development.

If your child lacks confidence in learning and social skills, perhaps allowing them to participate in developmental programs or practice in extracurricular activities can help boost their self-esteem. Participating in a group-setting or team-related activities will not only build their confidence, but improve their math and reading levels, as well as improve their social, interpersonal, leadership, teamwork, and speaking skills.

Here is a list of programs or activities your child can try.

● After school programs

● Sports

● Martial Arts

● Music lessons

● Art club

● Dance or cheerleading

● Learn a new language

● Cooking/baking class

● STEM programs

● Creative Writing/poetry club

● Church programs

● Chess club

● Spelling competition

● Book club

● Math club

● Gardening

● Photography & videography

As you explore options, ask your child what they want to do. Search for programs that are free or offer scholarships. Your school may offer many opportunities that’s included on the list. If not, ask around in your community or church. When choosing a program, ask questions. Make sure you are comfortable with the leadership and the environment. And definitely make sure your child is comfortable as well. Again, this is a time for your child to have fun, discover their interests, gain confidence, make friends, and improve skills. It’s important for their growth and development, but it shouldn’t be an experience that overwhelms them.

The great thing about exploring and discovering is learning what your child likes and dislikes. When children discover activities that spark their interest, they will be more inclined to participate or practice consistently. And when they meet others who like the same activities, there is a higher chance they’ll gain new friendships.

As good parents, we don’t want to see our children struggle with low self-esteem. We want to see our children be social, make friends, behave well, and succeed.