Extracurricular Activities in Schools

Extracurricular activities at school offer opportunities for students to explore their interests, discover their talents and develop a well-rounded personality. In addition, activities outside of the classroom can actually help students focus inside the classroom, as well as provide them with essential life lessons. 

Numerous studies have demonstrated the significance of extracurricular school activities, recommending that children participate in at least two extracurricular activities so that they have a variety of experiences and learn more about themselves in the process. 

You may be amazed by the variety of extracurricular activities available in schools and communities. Students can find programs for a range of interests – from hobby-based organizations to year-round competitive programs. Here are just some examples of organized activities available at Christ Church Episcopal School: 

Younger children can participate in sports through CCES’s Afternoon Encounters or Junior Cavs programming. When they reach 7th grade, there are several Middle School sports teams such as volleyball, basketball, and football. CCES also offers 46  junior varsity and varsity level sports. Long-term participation in sports fosters problem-solving, critical thinking, self-discipline, and teamwork abilities. attributes all contribute to a more resilient and responsible child. 

Popular extracurricular activities in practically every town include theater and music. CCES offers opportunities in Middle and Upper School for students to participate in dramas and musicals. Students who appreciate stagecraft but are not performers can assist with setting up the stage, working on the lighting, sound, and special effects, or creating costumes.

While some children who thrive in the performing arts might go on to become professional actors, comedians, or other performers in their adulthood, the more immediate benefit is that students gain confidence, make friends, and have fun.

Children who enjoy drawing, painting, ceramics, digital arts, or film and photography benefit from a robust visual arts program. CCES offers classes for every age and often welcomes guest artists to work with its students. Arts clubs, afterschool programs, and summer camps provide even more opportunities for students to explore their creativity and hone their skills.  

Band and choir extracurricular activities are popular in many schools, including CCES. In fact, at CCES, fifth-grade students are required to enroll in either band or orchestra so that they are exposed to playing an instrument and perhaps find a new passion. Educational research indicates that children who play instruments perform better in academic subjects. Nevertheless, learning to play and appreciate music is a tremendous reward.

Academically-inclined students can participate in clubs and teams that expand their knowledge. In addition, academic clubs benefit students considering majoring in the sciences or other academic subjects in college or for their future jobs.

Participating in student government is an excellent way to develop leadership abilities and influence school policies and events. CCES students can participate in Student Council, Honor Council, or our Youth in Government program. Through Youth in Government, students spend several months preparing for an annual conference by researching topics and writing bills. Student attorneys work in teams to prepare their cases, write briefs, and prepare oral arguments. It is a great way to get real-life experience and an understanding of how government functions. 

STEM (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics) programs perfectly fit children who enjoy tinkering or playing on computers and iPads. In addition, some schools provide scientific, computing, or engineering clubs, and an increasing number of programs cater to the STEM interests of children. LEGO robotics, coding, and a new drone class are a few examples of programs offered at CCES. 

With so many options, choosing an extracurricular activity can be daunting. Students and parents certainly need to take into account what most interests them, scheduling, and the amount of time the activity will require.  It’s important to listen to your child and include them in the conversation.  

Participating in extracurricular activities at school is a great way to try new things or even cultivate your child's hidden abilities. In addition, it will help your child begin to learn time-management skills. 

Extracurricular activities benefit your child's physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development. They also contribute to children’s self-esteem, self-discipline, and sense of responsibility. 

Who doesn't want their child to gain all the benefits of extracurricular activities? With all those benefits in mind, Christ Church Episcopal School is the best place for your child in Greenville. We have a variety of extracurricular activities serving different interests. Contact us for any inquiries.