How to Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities

“Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52).

Extracurricular activities are a great way to give your child a well-rounded education. However, they can also easily trap families into an overwhelmingly busy schedule. That’s why homeschooler Vicki Bentley recommends remembering Luke 2:52 and asking one simple question: “What progress would you like your child to make in those four areas this year?” Once you’ve decided what fits your homeschool family’s schedule, here are three ways you can get your child involved in extracurricular activities:

1. Participate through a public school or another local organization.
Beyond sports, public schools can offer your child numerous opportunities, including debate, choir, band, theater, and more. Although participation of homeschool students in public school activities is dependent on state laws, homeschoolers have gained ground on equality thanks to numerous states adopting Tim Tebow bills. In addition to the public school, churches and communities offer a wide variety of clubs and organizations that can help teach your children skills and teamwork.

2. Attend certification classes.
Like so many other elements of homeschooling, it’s important to look beyond what traditional schools offer. Certification training in classes for CPR, babysitting, first-aid, and lifeguarding can not only teach your children practical life skills, but it can also present your children a great way to begin earning their own income.

3. Volunteer.
Volunteering not only offers an amazing opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus, but it can also be a great learning experience. Though there are literally thousands of places you could volunteer, you may want to consider volunteer ideas that could open your child’s eyes (and your own) to see the daily circumstances of neighbors in your community and how they vary from your own.