The Role of Extracurricular Activities in School for Holistic Growth

 

Think about an introverted child who never used to mingle with anybody in the class. Her teacher encouraged her to join the music club. And to everybody’s surprise, she turned out to be a melody queen. She overcame her stage fear and became much more confident and an essential part of the school’s music troupe.

 

That’s the magic of extracurricular activities. Whether it is music, sports, arts, drama, or debate club, these completely transform a child’s personality and give a fresh perspective on life.

 

In this blog, we will comprehend the definition of extracurricular activities, their types, advantages, and significance for kids.

 

What are Extracurricular Activities?

 

Extracurricular activities are all the things students do outside their regular academic curriculum which are engaging and enjoyable.

 

Children should be encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities after school to help them grow in multiple ways beyond academics. This way children learn to balance studies and activities beautifully, enjoying every moment of learning.

 

Why are Extracurricular activities important for school children?

 

Enriching extracurricular activities are essential for school children because they provide benefits apart from traditional academics. They develop them into holistic individuals and teach them valuable life lessons.

 

The added benefit is that universities and potential employers want to see students succeed in extracurricular activities because it makes them well-rounded people who can multitask as team players. They have a significant role in learning and development!

 

Types of Extracurricular Activities

 

Extracurricular activities include many areas, such as drama clubs, sports, arts, music, dance, debate clubs, coding clubs, and even volunteering.

 

At Chettinad Hari Shree Vidyalayam, children are offered an After-school program for kids that helps shape them as holistic individuals. Let us list them out here.

 

  1. Classical Dance
  2. Music
  3. Theatre
  4. Western Dance
  5. Visual Arts

 

Children can enrol themselves in these activities based on their personal interests. While the After-school activities are optional the Creative Expressions program is during school hours.

 

Benefits of participating in Extracurricular activities

 

One of the main advantages of extracurricular activities is teaching kids discipline and resilience. These activities encourage kids to confront obstacles and overcome their worries, whether preparing for a competition, working on a group project, or performing in front of an audience.

 

Participation fosters the growth of a positive outlook and a strong work ethic, two qualities necessary for success in life.

 

Participating in extracurricular activities is the best thing that can happen to any student. The experience is thoroughly enjoyable and has many advantages.

 

Let’s take a closer look at 10 of those advantages.

 

1. Increased confidence and self-worth

 

Youngsters love exploring, and extracurricular activities encourage them to discover new things. They significantly increase their confidence and self-worth. Whether winning a game, competing, or leading a team, extracurricular activities help them become more motivated to succeed.

 

2. Comprehensive Growth

 

Holistic development is growth in all aspects, including intellect, body, and mind. Extracurricular activities foster a student’s creativity, leadership, social skills, and physical health. They develop kids into people prepared for real-life obstacles, not simply book smarts.

 

3. Personality Development

 

Participation in extracurricular activities shapes students’ personalities. They support their growth in self-assurance, communication, and leadership. They gain discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, whether running a club, participating in sports, or performing on stage. They become more flexible, expressive, and prepared to face the world.

 

4. Responsibility and Time Management

 

Juggling school, extracurricular activities, and personal lives teaches youngsters time management and responsibility. They learn to set priorities, adhere to deadlines, and maintain commitment. Children benefit from these experiences by being more organized and responsible in everything they do, whether practicing or finishing a job!

 

5. Better Decision-making

 

Children manage situations and develop decision-making skills that require thinking quickly and making wise decisions. They learn to analyze circumstances, assess possibilities, and make confident real-life decisions, whether playing a game, organizing an event, or solving a problem in a club.

 

6. Exploration and Development of Skills

 

Children who participate in extracurricular activities learn valuable skills and uncover new talents. These exercises give kids practical practice in various skills, including creativity, teamwork, leadership, and communication. They experiment with multiple hobbies, discover their passions, and develop abilities that will benefit them in their daily lives, careers, and academic pursuits.

 

7. Teach vital life skills

 

Children at school acquire vital life skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. They learn to deal with difficulties, collaborate, manage their time, and maintain discipline. These abilities are helpful in the classroom, the workplace, relationships, and everyday life.

 

8. Establishing and Reaching Goals

 

Through extracurricular activities, children learn how to set and achieve goals. They gain perseverance and determination by winning a competition, learning to play an instrument, or getting better at a sport. Reaching these objectives gives them more self-confidence and demonstrates that everything is possible with enough work and concentration.

 

9. Individual Development

 

Youngsters are encouraged to step outside their comfort zone, promoting self-development. They gain self-assurance, fortitude, and a sense of accountability. Through leadership, collaboration, or acquiring new abilities, these experiences make them more competent, self-sufficient, and well-rounded.

 

10. Character Development

 

Teaching virtues like self-control, accountability, perseverance, and teamwork shapes every child’s character. They help them establish integrity, handle achievements and setbacks gracefully, and cultivate a strong work ethic. These encounters shape them into well-rounded, moral people capable of overcoming obstacles in life with courage and fortitude.

 

Wrapping up

 

Extracurricular activities are crucial in shaping a child’s overall development beyond academics. They provide a platform for kids to explore what they like, develop new skills, and build confidence.

 

Moreover, extracurricular activities provide a much-needed break from their routine, allowing children to refresh their minds and reduce stress. They also help build friendships and improve social skills essential for personal and professional life.

 

Chettinad Hari Shree Vidyalayam is one of the best schools offering IGCSE and ICSE curriculum in Chennai. They provide a platform for students to grow in all aspects and become holistic individuals. Extracurricular activities aren’t just extras. They’re the key to unlocking potential, building character, and shaping future leaders, allowing them to learn, grow, and shine beyond the classroom!

ng work ethic. These encounters shape them into well-rounded, moral people capable of overcoming obstacles in life with courage and fortitude.

 

FAQs

 

  1. Why are extracurricular activities important for students?

  2. Extracurricular activities help students develop essential life skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management. They also enhance creativity and boost confidence, supporting overall personality development beyond academics.

     

  3. How do extracurricular activities support academic performance?

  4. They improve focus, discipline, and stress management. Students often perform better academically when they’re involved in activities they enjoy, as it helps balance their mental and emotional well-being.

     

  5. What types of extracurricular activities are most beneficial?

  6. It really depends on the student’s interests. Sports, music, art, drama, debate, coding, and volunteering all offer different benefits. The key is regular participation and engagement.

     

  7. Can extracurriculars help in college admissions?

  8. Yes! Colleges look for well-rounded students. Involvement in extracurriculars shows initiative, commitment, and the ability to balance responsibilities.

     

  9. How can schools encourage more participation?

  10. By offering diverse options, creating inclusive environments, and recognising students’ efforts through events, certificates, or leadership roles are some of the ways how schools can encourage more participation.

Top 10 Benefits of Montessori Education for Independent and Holistic Child Development

 

Are you exploring early education options for your little one? Do you wish to scout for various opportunities to ensure your kid’s holistic growth and development?

 

Then this is your destination!

 

For early infants, Montessori education offers a special method that fosters self-reliance, creativity, and a love for learning. Imagine a classroom where education is an exciting experience rather than a boring, rigid routine. Montessori education cultivates a lifelong love for learning. That’s what makes Montessori education so wonderful!

 

In this blog, we will explore the top 10 benefits of Montessori education and why this system will be the best bet for your child’s holistic development.

 

What is Montessori education?

 

The core principle of Montessori education is that children learn, grow, and explore at their own pace. Italian physician and educator Dr. Maria Montessori developed this ground-breaking child-centred method that encourages self-directed and experiential learning. She created the dynamic, flexible Montessori method to update the antiquated, rigid curriculum.

 

The fundamentals of the original Montessori education are listed here.

 

  • Child-friendly classrooms with study materials placed at their level for easy access.
  • Materials help grasp concepts through sensory experiences.
  • Mixed-age classrooms and collaborative play environments.
  • Self-interest-based learning fosters motivation.
  • Focus on practical life skills like pouring, cleaning, and tying shoelaces.
  • Teachers are guides and not instructors.
  • Uninterrupted long learning hours ensure concentration.

 

Top Benefits of Montessori Education:

 

Chettinad Hari Shree Vidyalayam is a pioneer in offering the Cambridge Early Years Program incorporating the best practices of Montessori methodology. Here, experiential learning is achieved through fun-filled activities.

 

The Montessori method adopted by Hari Shree allows children to develop intellectually, socially, and emotionally at their own pace. There are 10 main advantages of this methodology.

 

1. Enhances problem-solving skills

 

The Montessori educational method places a strong emphasis on critical thinking and self-directed decision-making. Children at Hari Shree are provided with self-corrective resources, such as math logic boards and puzzles, which enable them to experiment, identify errors, and resolve problems themselves. Younger students learn from more seasoned students in a cooperative setting for learning. To foster their curiosity and inquiry, they are also exposed to open-ended activities.

 

Children in the Montessori curriculum at Hari Shree are equipped to think critically, solve issues, and confront challenges head-on.

 

2. Holistic growth and development

 

The integrated development of a child’s physical, emotional, social, and intellectual aspects is known as holistic development. The Montessori curriculum places a strong emphasis on self-paced learning in order to foster holistic development.

 

The structured setting and individualised instruction at Hari Shree foster children’s emotional intelligence and critical thinking. This guarantees balanced development for long-term success.

 

3. Cultivates self-motivation and self-discipline

 

For any child’s development, self-motivation and self-discipline must be fostered. Children who are self-motivated are more inclined to welcome new challenges and educational possibilities. They take responsibility for their choices and behaviours, gaining vital life skills like resourcefulness and problem-solving.

 

Hari Shree fosters tenacity and resilience by allowing kids to select activities according to their preferences.

 

4. Aids in the development of cognition

 

Early infancy cognitive development is critical because the human brain develops more quickly throughout these formative years. This establishes the groundwork for future achievement and general progress.

 

The Montessori method adopted by Hari Shree encourages cognitive growth through experiential learning and sensory investigation. Self-correcting resources are provided to kids, which improves their memory and logical thinking skills while assisting them in understanding abstract ideas. This improves their general intellectual development and prepares them for the future.

 

5. Enhances Critical and Creative Thinking

 

Children must participate in activities that foster logical reasoning and imagination to develop their creativity and critical thinking skills. They must embrace brainstorming, seek out a variety of information, and challenge ideas vigorously.

 

At Hari Shree, kids take part in self-directed activities that foster creativity, curiosity and the freedom to try new things and learn from.

 

6. Develops leadership abilities

 

A child’s whole personality development greatly depends on the development of their leadership abilities. Including them in school projects, role-playing, extracurricular activities, and many other activities will promote cooperation and teamwork.

 

In the mixed-age Montessori classroom at Hari Shree, older students serve as mentors to younger ones. This encourages responsibility, empathy, and cooperation. Youngsters cooperate to complete projects and make judgments on their own. They develop strong leadership skills as a result, preparing them for the future.

 

7. Program for Individualized Education

 

One of the fundamental tenets of Montessori education is this: Instead of a single curriculum for the entire class, Montessori offers a personalised curriculum for each student. It essentially holds that each child is unique and that this includes their skills.

 

Hari Shree follows a personalised learning curriculum for each child, enabling them to advance at their own speed depending on their interests and talents. Teachers provide personal assistance and guide youngsters along their particular journey. This strategy makes learning fun-filled and renders a deep knowledge of ideas.

 

8. Encourages the growth of social and emotional skills

 

Through dialogue and interactive learning environments, the Montessori tenets foster children’s social and emotional growth. They are intended to foster both individual and group connection as kids collaborate, exchange ideas, and work through issues as a group.

 

Hari Shree’s mixed-age, cooperative classrooms promote empathy and respect among classmates. Children acquire self-control and conflict resolution skills through encounters in the actual world. A genuine loving environment fosters self-assurance and a good attitude toward life in children.

 

9. Practical, experiential learning

 

Hands-on, real-world learning is another fundamental tenet of Montessori education. Direct involvement with objects and activities, rather than abstract instructions, encourages clarity of cognition and a greater comprehension of concepts.

 

Hari Shree has a strong emphasis on experiential, hands-on learning, enabling kids to engage directly with objects and investigate ideas.

 

10. Nurtures love for learning

 

Montessori education instills a deep love for learning in young children and lets them explore through self-directed hands-on activities at their speed. This method is designed to nurture natural curiosity, makes it a timeless approach to education, with a flexible curriculum and practical training,

 

Hari Shree cultivates a true love for learning in growing children. This makes education enjoyable and meaningful, fostering a lifelong passion for knowledge and personal growth.

 

Statistical Facts on Montessori Education:

 

A study compared children of Montessori with non-Montessori on ELA (English, Language, Arts), Maths and Science proficiency. The results were worth noting! Montessori kids outperformed!

 

  • 15% to 24% higher achievement in ELA (grades 3-8)
  • 8% to 30% in Mathematics (varies by grade level)
  • 14% to 27% in Science (varies by grade level)

 

The Take-Home message:

 

Montessori methodology is more than just a teaching method. It is a transformational journey that prepares children for real-world success. Investing in Montessori education means investing in a bright future for your little one!

 

Chettinad Hari Shree Vidyalayam’s Cambridge Early Years Program is the right platform to onboard your child. Explore the world of Montessori at Hari Shree and nurture independence, creativity, and lifelong learning for holistic development.

 

FAQs

 

  1. What is Montessori education?

  2. A child-centric method, Montessori education places a strong emphasis on individualised instruction, mixed-age classes, and hands-on, self-directed learning.

     

  3. What is special in Montessori education?

  4. In a planned, child-centred setting, Montessori education promotes self-reliance, experiential learning, self-paced development, critical thinking, and socialisation.

     

  5. How important is Montessori education for kids?

  6. Montessori education creates a solid basis for lifelong learning and holistic development by encouraging self-reliance, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

     

  7. How does a Montessori education work?

  8. Montessori education encourages freedom, creativity, and critical thinking by fostering self-directed learning through guided exploration, mixed-age classrooms, and hands-on materials.

     

  9. What is the role of the teachers in Montessori elementary schools?

  10. In a prepared setting, Montessori elementary teachers facilitate, monitor, and encourage self-directed learning while encouraging self-reliance, critical thinking, and teamwork.

Rohini Praneeth

Senior Secondary Educator

Rohini is passionate about teaching Math and computer science and endeavours to get her students to learn with interest and involvement. She has a Master’s degree in software engineering. She is an enthusiastic facilitator always looking for ways to bring in best practices in teaching and learning. She believes all children are unique and one size doesn’t fit all. She identifies the different learning styles of students and ensures that every student’s unique academic needs are met. She believes in inquiry based learning as an approach to equip students with 21st century skills.

Celebrating Community: A Joyful Year-End Potluck

On the last day of the year, our school came together to celebrate community through a delightful potluck. The event aimed to foster unity, inclusivity, and a sense of shared responsibility among learners while providing an opportunity to reflect on the year gone by. Students brought a variety of homemade dishes, which they shared with their Hari Shree family in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Sitting together, they enjoyed the diverse flavors, showcasing the richness of traditions and the spirit of togetherness. The potluck was not just about food; it was a moment to connect, appreciate one another, and celebrate the bonds that make our school a close-knit community. In the spirit of the season, the event also encouraged gratitude and reflection. Students shared their thoughts on the year’s experiences, cherished memories, and lessons learned, reinforcing a sense of collective growth. Respectful behaviour, cooperation, and care for one another were beautifully evident throughout the gathering. The potluck was a heartwarming reminder of the values we uphold as a school. It ended with smiles, full hearts, and a renewed commitment to carrying the spirit of sharing and unity into the new year.

Grade XII Students’ Memorable Adventure at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

The grade XII learners recently embarked on an unforgettable outbound trip to the renowned Tadoba famously known as the “Land of Tigers”. The learners were thrilled to encounter the reserve’s diverse wildlife, including the majestic tigress Madhu and her cubs, alongside oxen, sambar deer, wild dogs, eagles, and more. Highlights included open-jeep safaris through pristine forests, spotting tiger paw prints, and learning about the unique ‘ghost tree’ that glows in moonlight. The learners also explored a man planting, fostering an appreciation for conservation. A scavenger hunt and a visit to Hans Dalal’s inspiring zero rounded out the experience. The trip provided stunning views of Tadoba’s rich biodiversity and left a lasting impact on the learners, inspiring a commitment to preserving the environment.

High School UTSAV 2024: A Celebration of Culture and Creativity

The students of Grades 9 and 11 came together to celebrate UTSAV 2024, which highlighted the richness of tradition and the joy of learning. Spanning over 3 days, the event featured a series of engaging sessions facilitated by renowned experts and mentors. The festivities commenced with an inauguration ceremony graced by chief guests Shri Seetharam Prasad and Shri Sarvesh Karthik, who set the tone for the immersive celebrations. Over the next few days, students were immersed in activities designed to inspire curiosity and foster creativity. Shri Seetharam Prasad introduced Grade 9 students to the intersection of Indian culinary traditions and cosmic influences. Shri Sarvesh Karthik led an engaging session for Grade 11 students, exploring the rhythmic heritage of the country. The PT teachers organized outdoor activities, bringing the students together for a playful exploration of age-old sports. Smt. Manaswini and Shri Ananth Baskar shared their expertise on preserving cultural heritage and unraveling global connections through artistic symbols. Facilitators Shri Karthik and Shri Madhan energized the auditorium with demonstrations that blended traditional martial techniques with modern flow arts. Under the guidance of the UTSAV Team, students showcased their academic inquiries in a unique exhibition judged by a distinguished research panel. The event concluded with interactive exhibits, including a drape challenge, a fireless cooking contest titled “Millet Mania,” and stalls showcasing traditional food, art, and cultural experiences. Students from Grades 9 to 12 participated enthusiastically, making these exhibits a memorable aspect of the celebration. UTSAV 2024 was a remarkable blend of learning and celebration, leaving students inspired by our rich cultural heritage while fostering a spirit of innovation and collaboration.

Children’s Day Celebration

On Children’s Day, the acharyas organized a delightful event to honor the student community. The celebration featured a lineup of activities, including energetic dance performances, captivating drama presentations, graceful classical dance displays, and a fun, interactive game session. Overall, the Children’s Day celebration was a grand success, leaving the learners with cherished memories and a sense of appreciation for the efforts of their mentors. It was a day that truly celebrated the joy and innocence and boundless energy of childhood.
Vizha

Hari Shree celebrated The Vizha

 

The school hosted The Vizha in August, a grand cultural event that saw over 600 participants from more than 20 schools across the city, competing in over 20 different events. The event was a celebration of talent and camaraderie, providing students a platform to showcase their skills. Renowned singers Sean Roldan and Medha Ramaswamy graced the occasion as chief guests. Alumni added to the spirit of the event by returning as judges, making it a true celebration of community. For the first time, The Vizha attracted a crowd of this size, marking a significant success.

Matka-Breaking

Dahi Handi Event

 

In keeping with the spirit of Janmashtami, the Dahi Handi event was organized, where students formed human pyramids to break the hanging pot, just as Krishna and his friends did during his childhood. The students were divided into their respective houses, each trying to reach the top of the pyramid and successfully break the pot. The event was filled with excitement and cheer, symbolizing unity, teamwork, and the playful side of Krishna’s persona.

9-CE

The Birth of Krishna – Grade IX CE Presentation

 

The Creative Expressions performances by the students of grade IX for Krishna Janmashtami were a beautiful amalgamation of art, music, dance, and drama. The students showcased their talents and deepened their connection with the teachings and stories of Lord Krishna. The event was a joyful celebration of Krishna’s life, filled with devotion, creativity, and learning. The event not only provided a platform for students to express themselves creatively but also helped them understand the values of kindness, love, and righteousness that Lord Krishna embodied. The students’ participation and the enthusiasm of the audience made the Krishna Janmashtami celebration a memorable and spiritually enriching experience for everyone involved.