11/03/2020

Hobbies are great for kids!

Having a hobby helps a child to develop some very valuable life skills they probably aren’t learning at school.

Hobbies can be simply reading books, collecting things, building and crafting, or even taking care of pets. The activity itself isn’t as important as the benefits a child gets out of it as they grow.

Which is why at Barracudas we encourage youngsters to try a wide range of pursuits which kids may develop a passion for.

If they haven’t already found a hobby, don’t worry. We’ll give them a broad itinerary to try out, and help them identify anything they are good at, or wish to pursue further.

Child psychology experts agree that any type of interest a child has outside of school can be helpful in getting away from the routine and conformity of the classroom, and express their own creativity. For example, a youngster who is shy, but joins a model-making club will not only learn a skill, but connect with others who like the same things. A child who collects coins or stamps will learn history and the value of things. Exercising their brains or their bodies by becoming immersed in something they enjoy can also help get away from the stresses of academic life.

Having a hobby will help your child to:

• Build confidence 
• Improve organisational skills 
• Learn problem solving
• Set achievable goals
• Gain attention to detail 
• Make future career choices (although there’s no rush)

As with most things in life, it’s all about balance. Children shouldn’t be pushed into too many extra curricular activities. And it’s important to encourage them towards what they are interested in – not what you want them to become. So don’t worry if your boy isn’t a natural footballer, and wants to start a bug collection – let him develop his own passions.

The advantage of Barracudas is that there is no cost for equipment or specialist clothing to try out new sports or activities. It’s a short-term commitment which might just unearth a future pro golfer, artist or drama enthusiast.

So let your child come and join us at our Easter camps, summer camps or even our half term holiday clubs, for fun, and to explore what their future might hold.