Why is it Important to Nurture Children’s Hobbies?
It’s no secret that Singaporeans place a great deal of emphasis and weight on their academics. Additionally, Singaporean kids prioritize their studies from an early age due to their understanding of the value of knowledge. For this reason, a lot of these kids’ interests tend to suffer in order to devote more time and energy to their schoolwork and academics. While it is true that education is crucial and that studying and dedicating more time to school-related activities are important, hobbies also have a significant impact on the development of our children. Our hobbies have a purpose beyond mere distraction. Interests support stress relief, personal development, and mental wellness. Actually, many schools place equal value on extracurricular activities and academics.
But as parents, how can you also help and support your child with their hobbies? In this article, we’re going to talk about the importance of nurturing hobbies in our children as well as what roles parents may take in doing so.
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Why should we nurture children’s hobbies?
The good news is that co-curricular activities (CCA) are becoming more and more common in Singaporean schools, assisting students in discovering their interests and passions. This implies that those who currently have interests are not the only ones who can enjoy new ones. Children might also experiment and discover new interests that might develop into an outlet. As we’ve mentioned, there are many reasons hobbies should be nurtured. Aside from being children’s pastimes, they could also learn other skills through these hobbies.
1. Hobbies relieve stress
It’s apparent that hobbies divert their attention. Students can stay active and divert their minds from exam anxiety by engaging in their interests. It eases their tension and anxiety when they are able to divert their attention from a certain topic that is causing them discomfort. They will be less likely to burn out from the stress of studying if they have a diversionary activity.
Furthermore, research has shown that it improves the children’s academic performance. By participating in hobbies or their CCA, students can unwind and divert their attention from the worksheets and assessment books they see on a daily basis. For example, your child’s artistic interests provide a creative outlet for any pent-up feelings. When individuals have other interests to pursue, it will make them feel better. Giving your children space to express themselves and unwind lowers the chance that they’ll act or think in an excessive way.
2. Hobbies help in developing skills and values
As your child becomes more involved in their hobby, they gain experience. They start to attract attention as soon as they start sharing their experiences with others. When their friends begin to pursue the same hobby, they might wish to ask for advice. This exposure also boosts their confidence, patience, and sense of value. In addition, they will be in a position to assist other students who wish to begin their own hobbies. Additionally, as they continue to assist and pursue their interests, they will pick up valuable life skills like time management and perseverance.
Engaging your child in sports and the arts is a great method to impart life lessons. Sports like basketball, netball, or football can help your child develop their teamwork and sportsmanship. Your child will learn leadership qualities in addition to teamwork. Arts-related activities that stimulate your child’s imagination and discipline include acting, dance, and visual arts. They will develop patience as well as the ability to foster and practice their craft over time. And who’s to say your child wouldn’t be among the highlights of an incredible show?
3. Hobbies develop social skills
Every activity has a community, whether it’s skating or pottery. Your child will be able to join these communities and grow their social network as they get more interested in their passion. They will socialize and form friendships with new people who share their passions and interests. They might also come across mentors who can aid in their skill development.
Their social skills are also developed as they make new acquaintances and interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds. They gain knowledge about not just their hobbies but also other areas of expertise.
4. Hobbies make use of extra time
Through hobbies, your child can fight boredom and keep their mind occupied. When kids are bored, it’s not uncommon for them to spend time on their phones or watching television. However, engaging in hobbies may mitigate that. According to studies, pastimes like playing board games and solving puzzles keep the brain busy and foster critical thinking. Your child can relax and unwind with crafts like knitting, crocheting, and the visual arts. It causes eustress, or joyful stress, which calms your child’s racing mind and lessens worry.
How can parents support their children?
As parents, you have probably wondered how you might support your child in discovering their own hobbies. The first thing to do is to encourage them. Find something they are interested in, then encourage them to begin. Alternatively, you may assist them in discovering something that piques their interest; these could be either new or old pastimes of yours.
Secondly, participate with them. Show that you care about their interests and that you want to join them. Even if you are unable to take part, your support will be much appreciated. Support them along the way, and celebrate with them when they reach a goal or a significant milestone. After that, let your kid experiment with other activities. It might be enough to give them a reading space in their room or let them participate in classes at their own pace. You may show children that you believe in them by just allowing them to try new things.
At last, pay attention to them. When they begin to talk about their hobbies and passions, listen to what they have to say, and join them as they relive the most thrilling moments of their new journey that they are willing to share with you. By listening to them, you show that you are interested in their interests.
Conclusion
Your child’s daily growth depends on you letting them pursue interests and activities outside of their classroom. Give your child some time and attention to let them discover their own hobbies. In the long run, it’s beneficial for their health and your relationship with them.
Carelle
Carelle is a teacher who has been through the ups and downs of the teacher and learner life. She wishes for every learner to gain educational satisfaction that will help embody the people they want to be in the future.
