By LauraMarie Carmody

     From sports to music to academic clubs to community involvement, extracurricular opportunities are always available for our children. With so many options, what should a child be involved in? What are the benefits? And, is there such a thing as being too involved?

     Determining what a child should be involved in may be as simple as asking them what they enjoy doing the most.

     "Every child is gifted in a different way," says J.K. Stevens, headmaster at Traders Point Christian Academy. "The key is to help them find that gift. Children need the opportunity to do what they enjoy. Normally, what they enjoy is what they are gifted in."

     "Extracurricular activities give children further opportunities to grow academically, socially and emotionally in areas they may not always get in the regular classroom setting," states Brenda Klingerman, elementary principal at Heritage Christian School. "These activities often help a child to develop in areas of giftedness, such as the arts or athletics. Science or math club may be just what some children need in order to remain challenged academically."

     "Some students can experience true success through extracurricular activities," Stevens adds. "Particularly for the struggling student, parents need to find a place for them that allows them to have a good time and excel. That becomes a bridge toward more self-confidence."

     The philosophy of pursuing your interests holds true no matter what the grade level and is an important part of college preparation. "Students should pursue things that are of interest to them - things they want to do - rather than things that may be on a college list," says Duane Emery, vice president for enrollment management at Cathedral High School. "Colleges would like to see more meaningful involvement in fewer activities rather than the opposite."

     "The greatest skill a student can take to college is the ability to manage time," he adds. "Extracurriculars force students to manage their time."

     "Students also learn networking, team building and interdependence," he continues. "Life isn't just about getting a good education, but rather how you interact and how you communicate thoughts and feelings."

     Service as an option

     Although we often equate extracurricular activities with sports, academics or the arts, community service is a sometimes-forgotten activity that exposes children to new environments and teaches them to give back.

     "There are many reasons for children to participate in extracurricular activities, including community service," says Abby Williams, dean of students at St. Richard's School. "Students exposed to such activities benefit from interacting with a more diverse population than those in their immediate home and school community. They also become aware of the need to follow various rules or procedures in different settings."

     Perhaps most compelling is the fact that involvement outside of the classroom actually builds a strong foundation for positive life choices. "According to research, kids with extracurricular activities tend to have higher grades, make better choices, and avoid smoking, alcohol, drugs and sexual activity," says Bill Stanczykiewicz, president and CEO of the Indiana Youth Institute.

     Set the tone

     While extracurriculars offer students many benefits, educators caution against committing to too many activities, leaving little time for homework, family and just plain relaxation.

     "Extra activities are wonderful in terms of developing a well-rounded child, but they need to be done in moderation," says Debbie Slavens, an executive director for Sylvan Learning Centers. "Prioritize extra activities in a way that makes sense - what your child enjoys and what will help him or her develop a talent or skill - but do not over schedule."

     It is all about maintaining a healthy balance, Klingerman says. "No matter the age or grade level of the child, it is important to keep a balance between the extracurricular, the day-to-day academics and the need for family time."

Article appears as published in the IW issue.