How to choose a club or sports section for your child: tips for parents.

A common misconception among parents is believing that extracurricular activities are solely for learning. While development is important, children also need time to relax after school. Experts from Education.ua share insights on how to choose an activity or club that can be beneficial and enjoyable for your child.

Participating in clubs and activities can help:

• foster creativity;
• improve health;
• develop independence;
• make new friends and learn teamwork;
• explore various interests;
• prepare for exams and deepen extracurricular knowledge, among other benefits.

However, parents should first ask their child if they are interested in engaging in activities beyond school. If they are, there are a few more factors to consider.

Consider the child's interests and abilities

The child's interests, physical abilities, and age play a crucial role in selecting additional activities. For instance, teenagers interested in video games might enjoy programming courses, while those with an entrepreneurial spirit could benefit from a children's business school. Remember that combining different types of activities—intellectual, creative, and physical—can be the best approach for holistic development.

If the child naturally possesses flexibility, suggest artistic gymnastics; if they have always loved dancing or singing, consider music lessons, dance classes, or vocal training; and if they enjoy photography, look into photography and video editing courses.

If your child is unsure about what they want to do, try some activities together and observe their reactions: attend a play, visit a robotics exhibition, check out a sports practice, or go to a roller rink or ice skating.

Every child is unique, and "Optima" understands this. The online school provides an individualized approach for each student, taking into account their personal pace and preferred learning method. With experienced teachers and innovative technologies, children receive quality knowledge that stays with them for life. "Optima" is a reliable partner in preparing for a successful future!

Find out about nearby courses, sections, and clubs

It would be more convenient for both your child and you to avoid spending excessive time traveling to an activity. Discover through acquaintances or online which public and private extracurricular education institutions operate near your home: sports schools, children's and youth creativity centers, cultural centers, development centers, etc. Review their schedules, service descriptions, and current prices.

Check reviews

The professionalism of instructors impacts children's motivation to learn and develop. Research online reviews or ask other parents whose children attend these activities for their opinions.

Assess how regularly your child can attend classes

Consider the schedule of the clubs and the expected number of sessions per week to plan your time and realistically evaluate whether your child can attend lessons consistently. Assess whether they can travel to the activities safely and independently. If the activities are far away, ensure there is a comfortable space for your child at home.

Communicate with instructors/organizers

Inquire about their procedures in case of an alarm during classes. Find out if there is a shelter at the facility and whether there is enough space for all students. If an alarm occurs before the class starts, ask whether it will be rescheduled or made up at another time.

Enroll your child in trial classes

After the trial sessions, ask about their experience, what they liked the most, and what made them anxious. Avoid forcing them to attend clubs they clearly dislike.

Universal activities worth trying for children:

• visual arts;
• yoga for kids;
• theater studio/puppet theater;
• acting classes;
• music/vocal.

Activities for children who love to build:

• robotics;
• technical modeling;
• animation and cartooning courses;
• chess.

Activities for active children:

• martial arts;
• acrobatics;
• soccer;
• choreography;
• artistic gymnastics;
• sports tourism;
• equestrian sports.