By Sybil Cummin, MA, LPC

Extra-curricular activities can be a fun way for children to learn skills and values such as time management, the value of team work, the value of hard work and dedication, as well as many others. There are all types of activities that are beneficial for kids to participate in; music, art, volunteering in the community, drama, and athletics. If you have a high energy or hyperactive child, providing your child ways to exercise and burn off some of that energy is needed and athletic activities are great for this. If your child has ADHD, it can be challenging to find an extracurricular activity that will keep your child engaged, motivated, and will help with the illusive skill of time management. Many children with ADHD not only struggle with focus and attention to detail, many also struggle in the social world as well, making team sports more difficult. Some children with ADHD do very well in a team environment and the team dynamics do not cause anxiety or blows to their self-esteem. If you do have a child that struggles in the social arena and may need an individual sport, martial arts may be exactly what you are looking for.