How important to encourage a range of interests in Yr7?

[Bramshott]

DD1 started Yr7 in Sept and is settling in well. Music is very much her thing, but counting up this morning I realise that of 3 clubs in school and 2 clubs out of school, all are music-based. She did used to swim but stopped lessons in Yr6 and isn't that keen on joining a swimming club (although probably would if pushed). She tried Drama club at school for a bit but didn't really enjoy it.

SO - how important do you think it is to encourage a wide range of interests at age 12? Or do you accept that by this age they have by and large found their 'thing' and are focussing on it? She enjoys most of her subjects at school and reads fairly widely.

I wouldn't worry. Sounds like she has found a range of things she enjoys doing, even if they are all music based. I'd imagine percussion could burn a few calories? And orchestras etc often offer opportunities for tours etc when they get older, as well as helping them to meet friends outside their usual circle.

My 2 DDs (yr 6/7) have more of a range of activities, but I think that is because neither is especially sporty or musical. Both learn an instrument, and go to sea scouts, then one sings in the school choir and the other does drama and goes to a church youth club. My yr7 DD doesn't seem to have joined many school based clubs, as she'd rather chill with her friends at lunchtime.

OP - I'd just be happy she's at a school that let's her follow her passions. Why are you worrying? Be grateful she's not at a school where she's browbeaten into doing lots of thuggish herd games, but perhaps encourage her to try some more physical thing from time to time to see if it clicks.

pourme - I found that orchestra tours offered lots of opportunities as a teenager

Ah yes the joys of youth orchestras. DD is going to China with a youth orchestra! What an amazing opportunity. But she's unfit....

Some strange attitudes here. Music can be very very competitive and stressful, particularly if you take grade exams.

Mine played netball today, competitive, yes, but also great fun, in a group of mates. Much less intense than studying for a grade 5 violin exam (dd2 giving up as doesn't want any more grade stress - she will continue to play in orchestra until her friends move on)

I've really enjoyed the discussion on this thread, even if it seems there isn't a definite 'right' answer for everyone. Thank you!