If you’re like most parents, you want your kids to have a well-rounded education that goes beyond just what they learn in school. But with homework, extra-curricular activities, and spending time with family, it can be tough to find time for anything else. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of unique after-school activities to help your kids learn new skills and explore their interests.

From learning a new craft to starting their own business, these activities will keep your kids engaged and excited about learning something new. So read on for some outside-the-box after-school ideas from Hygloss!

Learn a New Craft

One great way to expand your child’s horizons is to have them learn a new craft. Good Housekeeping notes that there are all sorts of crafts out there, from knitting and sewing to woodworking and pottery. And the best part is that classes are available for all skill levels. So whether your child is a total beginner or has been crafting for years, they’re sure to find a class that’s right for them. Other craft ideas include:

• Paper crafts (e.g., origami, paper airplanes, paper flowers)
• Painting (e.g., canvas, easel, acrylics)
• Crocheting (e.g., yarn, hooks, pattern)

Check out the extensive range of craft supplies and projects available from Hygloss!

Do Some STEM Experiments

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. And while most kids learn about these subjects in school, there’s nothing like getting hands-on experience with them.

There are all sorts of experiments that you can do at home with little more than some everyday household items. Or, if you want something more structured, there are also plenty of classes and kits available that will walk you through the process step by step.

Here are a few STEM activities to try:

• Build a model of the solar system.
• Create a timeline of important discoveries in astronomy.
• Observe the night sky and keep a star chart.
• Make a poster about black holes.
• Study the planets and their moons.
• Research famous astronomers throughout history.
• Design your own space mission.

Help Them Start a Business

If your kid has an entrepreneurial spirit, why not help them start their own business? There are countless businesses that kids can start, from selling t-shirts or baked goods to offering babysitting or pet-sitting services. Your child will not only learn valuable business skills but also get a taste of what it’s like to be their own boss! They could even make their own business cards with a free online tool. This site could be helpful, as it allows users to personalize a template of their choice with a logo, text, fonts, and other design elements.

Many factors go into starting a company, and it’s essential to use available resources. This guide from Business News Daily on how to start a company is an excellent place to start. It details how to create a business plan, choose a legal structure, market your brand, and more.

Sign Them Up To Volunteer

Another great way to turn after-school hours into learning opportunities is to have your child volunteer for a local cause or charity. This can make them feel good about giving back to their community as they also learn new skills and gain valuable work experience. Plus, they might even make some new friends along the way!

Try Martial Arts

Parents may enroll their children in martial arts for various reasons, but jiu-jitsu, karate, and other martial arts can benefit nearly everyone. Many parents hope their children will learn self-defense. However, the benefits of martial arts training extend beyond these goals.

Martial arts can help improve a child’s physical conditioning, balance, coordination, and flexibility. They also teach important life skills such as discipline, focus, and respect. And, if your child is ever in a dangerous situation, they will have the skills to defend themselves.

Conclusion

After-school activities are excellent opportunities for kids to explore their interests, learn new skills, and make friends. So if you’re looking for something outside the usual homework and extracurricular activities, why not try one of these unique ideas? Your children are sure to find an activity that they enjoy — and that helps them grow as individuals too!

Article specially written for hyglossproducts.com

By Alyssa Strickland