The time children spend outside of school hours is crucial for their development and well-being. In the spring of 2022, 40% of Canadian children aged 4 to 12 participated in some form of before- and after-school care. Among the various care options, programs located within schools were the most popular, with 45% of children attending such programs. Additionally, 25% of children were cared for by relatives other than parents or siblings, and 11% were looked after by siblings.
These arrangements showcase the importance of structured care environments in supporting the development and well-being of children outside of regular school hours.
This blog explores the benefits of after-school programs, focusing on how they inspire interest in STEM subjects, foster stronger relationships, address sedentary behaviours, encourage healthy eating, and help build self-defence skills.
Wide Ranging Benefits of After-School Programs
Inspiring Interest in STEM Subjects
A 2015 study by Let’s Talk Science and Amgen Canada revealed that 70% of parents believe STEM education is crucial for their child’s growth and learning.
After-school programs dedicated to skill-building and STEM activities extend learning time, offer additional support, and engage students with hands-on activities and practical tools. By participating regularly in these programs, students not only enhance their STEM skills but also bridge achievement gaps, fostering a lasting interest in these vital fields.
Fostering Stronger Relationships
Research by the Search Institute found that strong relationships between youth and adult role models are essential for positive development.
Their findings show that children participating in after-school programs demonstrate higher social and emotional competencies, including responsibility, decision-making, social and self-awareness, and self-management.
Upon leaving programs such as after-school martial arts, children have been seen utilizing their developed skills. They become well-socialized, productive members of society, capable of fostering positive relationships in various environments.
Addressing Sedentary Behaviours
The after-school period is often marked by high levels of inactivity. According to a report from Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada, 84% of screen-based sedentary behaviours occur during this time. Children spend an average of 25 minutes per hour being sedentary after school, while teens spend 42 minutes per hour in sedentary activities. This excessively unstructured, unsupervised, and unproductive time negatively impacts their development.
Participating in martial arts after-school programs or similar courses can help address this issue. These programs offer structured, supervised activities that combat sedentary behaviours, promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle and fostering a sense of security and community among participants.
Building Self-Defence Skills
Learning self-defence is an essential component of positive youth development, offering benefits that extend beyond physical safety. At Dragon Taekwondo, our after-school martial arts programs are tailored to teach children and teens practical self-defence skills through structured Taekwondo classes.
Our curriculum emphasizes techniques such as striking, kicking, blocking, and evasion, which not only empower students to protect themselves but also build confidence and discipline. Training in a safe and supervised environment, students learn to apply these techniques effectively without causing harm to themselves or others. This focus on safety ensures that self-defence training is both practical and responsible.
Talk to us to learn more about our martial arts after-school program and book a free trial lesson today.