One of the things I put a lot of effort into is having a well-rounded
son. Not just a child that is good at
academics or athletics or art, but a child that has experience in all. I believe that children should try their hand
at all types of things before they are allowed to say they don’t like something
or they don’t want to try. That is
actually the rule in my house….you have to try before you give up. So every spring I begin to look at what
activities my son can participate in for the rest of the year. I start by looking for activities that I know
he likes best. My son LOVES LEGO’s so I am
always looking to see if he is old enough to participate in a LEGO robotics
camp. Once I have found an activity I know
he will love I look for activities to help develop his other muscles.
If you have a little boy like me you most likely have
experienced the resistance to all things academic and only having the desire to
play. This is why I try so hard to find
different activities for him to participate in.
I remember when I was in middle school my dad asking me what I wanted to
be when I grew up and taking me to the library to look it up. As I got older doing that helped me decide to
go to college. As I began to look into
what was necessary to get into college I noticed they all asked what I did besides
go to school. I had a few extra curriculars
but not enough to make me stand out.
Luckily for me since I started looking at what I wanted to be when I was
in middle school my dad had me start to look at what it would take to get into
college in 10th grade. Thank God
for my dad! I spent the next two years participating
in whatever activities I could. So the tradition continues in my house only I am
starting in elementary school. I am
hoping to create the habit of being able to balance school and extra
curriculars at a young age to help ensure the well roundedness of my son as he
gets older.
Below is a short list of resources I use to help well-round my son…Enjoy!
After School Enrichment (check with your child’s school)
Seasonal Sports (check your local recreational facility)
Leslie,
ReplyDeleteI'm not a mom myself, but I do agree that it is important for children to be well-rounded. While sports are fun, it is important for kids to know things about the world around them.
Leslie,
ReplyDeleteI also have a son and have the same values you do. My son is now almost 22, but throughout his life I made the same commitment. Academics were not his favorite, but he did well. He started playing hockey at the age of 3, and still plays today. It helped shape who he is. He also played soccer, football and lacrosse. The value he received from team sports was much more than playing the game. He made life long friends, learned at a young age how important team work is and that it is not all about winning. It was also a huge confidence builder for him. We also made him volunteer at least once or twice a year. This taught him compassion and empathy. It also made him respect and become grateful for everything he has. Today, he is a senior in college and is studying to become a PA. He also still volunteers and plays sports. It is a big commitment for a parent to raise a well rounded child, but one that is well worth it! Great Post!
Totally agree with raising well rounded kids! I'm going to have to check out the summer camp link!
ReplyDelete