Commentary
Newsday reporter
Dr Asha Pemberton
Our nation’s youth are already well into their routine for the first school term of 2023. In addition to managing their studies, there are many sports, academic groups and clubs available to them. There are many benefits to engaging in extracurricular activities. Although there is an investment in time, resources and commitment, the benefits are exponential
Teens who participate in school-based activities are more likely to connect with their school environment, peers, and teachers and have a more productive overall academic experience. Research shows improvement in attendance, punctuality and exit exams for those young people who participate in the activities.
In addition, specific clubs lead to the development of specific skills. Young people who have a crippling fear of performance benefit greatly from dance, drama or debating clubs. Those managing their health and body weight benefit from engaging in group sports activities to increase their daily energy. The possibilities are many, but parents and young people need to take the time to explore the possibilities that exist.
Adolescence is a time when young people are rapidly exploring and developing their identity. Participating in a variety of activities during adolescence exposes them to different types of people with a variety of interests. This exposure to new experiences can help them strengthen their sense of self.
Participation also supports positive empowerment and feelings of personal agency. This sense of self pays dividends in the longer term, as young people are more confident in protecting themselves, their best interests and avoiding high-risk behaviour.
Exposure to culture, arts and traditions is another often overlooked benefit of extracurricular activities. We are now able to enjoy a National Schools Panorama Competition with orchestras of a very high standard from every corner of our islands.
This is entirely due to the availability of instruction and access to the instrument by youngsters who then participate in their school club. This is how our heritage is transmitted between generations and should not be neglected as an important benefit of the school cultural space.
Peer relationships play an important role in young people’s lives. Those teenagers who belong to special activity groups naturally make friends with other participants and peers. This is often a very protective element for young people to guard against alliances with high-risk behaviors.
Although not universally, many young people who engage in substance use experiments or sexual adventures are not positively associated with other pursuits. This is a critical preventive strategy in adolescence. Parents are encouraged to take the time to explore opportunities within school spaces for their teens to be involved. The benefits are truly exponential and the productive and preventative aspects last a lifetime
