Beyond Booksmart

Choosing extracurricular pursuits that enrich your child’s mind.

- Malia Jacobson

Want to raise a kid who excels at school and beyond? Think outside the classroom. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, extracurricular activities boost kids’ community connections and are linked to better grades and school attendance. Finding the right fit for your child, however, isn’t always easy.

What’s the right age to begin after-school classes? How can families choose activities that enrich their children’s lives without adding pressure, conflict or unrealistic expectations? How and when should parents encourage children to persist, or decide it’s time for a graceful exit? Here is an age-by-age guidance on finding extracurricular pursuits that round out your child’s education without ramping up stress.

EARLY YEARS

Bright Beginnings

Parents shouldn’t rush tots into classes and clubs, says parent educator Tara Egan, founder of Charlotte Parent Coaching. Young children enrolled in high-quality preschools are likely already participating in subjects like art, physical education and music.