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Extra-curricular activities

Find advice on the best extra curricular activities in secondary schools and primary schools here.

Original poster

Which clubs would you say have been the most worthwhile?

55 replies

Magnificentbeast · 04/11/2019 12:16

I'm thinking about clubs for my 5yo and would like to know which ones other parents find to be the most worthwhile for their DC. I mean in terms of enjoyment, confidence, skills etc.

Swimming is non-negotiable for me - my DC have to learn to swim. However, I think it would be good to include her in something else. I just can't decide what. I also want to be selective and not overload her with activities.

OP posts:
Cohle · 04/11/2019 14:38

For me it was a musical instrument and a physical activity that they enjoyed.

ExpectingatChristmas · 04/11/2019 14:33

I would say it isn't a specific club but more what suits your child. What they love.

We have tried numerous activities for our children. It often takes trial and error to find one they love enough to continue no matter what.

You can have in your head what is best for them. However, if their heart isn't 100% in it it's going no where.

WishUponAStar88 · 04/11/2019 14:29

A lot of clubs allow a free taster lesson. Why not ask her what she’d like to do and try out a few classes? What others on here found great won’t necessarily be what interests your daughter. My 5yo adores gymnastics. Keeps asking to do ballet too but I’m leaving anything extra a while as it’s too much to fit in with other kids activities too.

RomaineCalm · 04/11/2019 14:24

Swimming definitely - it was non-negotiable for us as well,

Perhaps a little older than your DC but mine loved Beavers - it was a very 'outdoorsy' group and they did some fun activities as well as their first ever residential trip. I have heard of some groups with a preference for crafty type activities though so worth checking depending on your DC's preferences.

Other than that DC have been members of several sports teams which has been hugely beneficial - whether that's the commitment and discipline of being part of a club/team, keeping active and fit, having an activity that isn't on a screen, or simply having a different group of friends outside of school.

DC aren't likely to be Olympic athletes in any sport but finding something that they enjoy and want to continue with as they get older is, imo, really important.

QueenofPain · 04/11/2019 12:21

I’m no authority on this subject as currently childless, but when I think about the regrets I have as an adult about things I wish I’d done as a child, it’s always a second language and playing a musical instrument to a good standard. Those are the things I’d like to direct my future children towards. I was taught both of these things at school (Spanish and the Flute) but it simply wasn’t enough time or intensive tuition to develop the level of competence that maintains your interest.