Boring after school activities
Why does Lisa grumble when it is time for
her to go for her piano lessons? How come Johnny abhors the sight of-his skates
now? After all, these children were very enthusiastic about the programs when
they started off. What happened? Parents are often confused by
the disturbing and often incongruous signals they receive from their children.
One day the kids are excited about the new theatre class and in just a few
short weeks they wail and moan when it's time to go. The first thing a family
should do when a child begins resisting a previously loved activity is to
listen and investigate. Do not jump into conclusions. A little bit of
intelligent sleuthing is required.
Ask your child what he or she does in the
class. Find out what exactly is the cause of the problem. Then ask the teachers
the same questions. Compare notes. You may stumble on some important clues.
Usually, children start out on an activity thinking it's all fun. But when they
realize that they cannot just hang out and that they need to follow rules etc,
they begin to resist.
Your child may feel stifled if the program is too
structured. If the discipline is too rigorous or the activity too painful (like
a karate class) some children balk. Use
your own instincts. Does the program feel like fun? Would you want to attend it
yourself? Are they offering enough motivation to keep the child interested?
The
teacher-to-child ratio is also an important factor. Children need attention. If
the number of-teachers is just enough to handle a class, it is possible that
your child is not receiving enough attention. State recommendations usually
specify that there must be 1 teacher for 15 children. Children try to avoid
problems they cannot solve.
If there are no perceivable problems with the class
and the teachers, perhaps you need to have a chat with your child. If - your
judgment says that the place is good and the activity engaging enough, then
it's time to work with your child. More often than not, social pressures may be
at work here.
Does your child have friends there? If she is lonely or miserable
because of the lack of friends, help her find a friend. If - she finds a friend,
she will get more involved in the activities If your best efforts do not pay
off, and your child still resists that fantastic guitar classes, then it's time
to let go. Shift your child to some other program.
If he or she still retains
interest in guitars, you can take it up after a few months. Never force the
child, especially when it comes to extra-curricular activities. Since they are
'extra', they must bring in extra happiness and extra enthusiasm too.
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After-School Activities
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