The Importance of Extracurriculars: Balancing Academics and Activities
Parents often face the tough decision of whether to limit their teenager’s participation in extracurricular activities when academic performance starts to slip. The logical approach may seem to focus solely on academics in order to improve grades. However, extracurriculars, especially sports, can provide crucial benefits that help students succeed not just in school, but in life.
Movement and Structure: The Brain Boosters
Did you know that physical activity enhances cognitive function? When your child participates in sports or other physical activities, it increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, improving their ability to learn and retain information. The same brain area that processes movement also processes learning, so physical activity can lead to better classroom performance and a more positive attitude toward school. This benefit isn’t limited to sports either—other forms of exercise, even as simple as walking, can have a similar impact.
Additionally, extracurricular activities provide the structure that many students, particularly those with executive function challenges, need to thrive. Regular practice schedules or rehearsals help students build discipline, time management, and organizational skills. This structure teaches them how to balance their responsibilities effectively, an essential skill for both academic and personal success.
How Extracurriculars Improve Academic Performance
It might seem counterintuitive to keep your child in extracurricular activities when they’re struggling academically, but these activities can enhance their overall academic experience. Studies show a strong correlation between participation in extracurriculars and academic success. Students who engage in clubs, sports, or other after-school activities tend to have higher GPAs, standardized test scores, and are more likely to graduate high school.
Our D3 soccer athlete, for instance, maintained a highly structured routine during the season, leading to success both on and off the field. When his athletic schedule relaxed during the off-season, his academic performance declined because he lacked the structure and routine that had helped him stay on track. After some adjustments and reintroducing structure into his schedule, his academic performance rebounded.
Extracurriculars not only contribute to academic performance but also foster personal growth. They teach valuable life skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and communication, which are not always cultivated in the classroom. Students who participate in these activities build stronger relationships with peers and adults, leading to a more well-rounded school experience.
Extracurriculars Provide Purpose
For many students, the motivation to attend school comes from their involvement in extracurricular activities. These activities can provide a sense of belonging and purpose, making students more engaged in both their academic and personal lives. Whether it’s sports, theater, art, or volunteering, these activities often become the highlight of a student’s day, reinforcing their connection to the school community.
Moreover, participation in extracurriculars is crucial for college admissions. Colleges look for students who are well-rounded and have developed a variety of skills and experiences outside the classroom. Extracurricular activities can strengthen college applications, helping students stand out in a competitive admissions process.
Final Thoughts: Finding Balance
Rather than pulling your teen out of their extracurriculars when they face academic struggles, consider how these activities can be structured to support their success. Movement, structure, and a sense of purpose all play a role in helping students develop the skills they need to succeed in both academics and life. If your child is facing challenges in managing their time or staying organized, you don’t have to go through it alone. With support from programs like Untapped, students can find the balance they need to excel in all areas.