.png)
How AfterSchool Activities Benefit Development for Kids & Teens
- Christopher Alexander
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
At Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area, we understand that afterschool activities play a crucial role in shaping the growth of kids and teens beyond the classroom. These activities provide a structured environment where youth can explore new interests, develop skills, and build social connections. Engaging in afterschool activities helps youth improve academically, emotionally, and physically, setting a strong foundation for their future.
The Importance of AfterSchool Activities for Youth Development
Afterschool activities at The Club offer more than just a way to pass time. They contribute significantly to the overall development of a child or teen by providing opportunities to learn and grow in diverse areas. For example, participating in sports can enhance physical health and teamwork skills, while joining a music or art club can boost creativity and self-expression.
Youth involved in after-school activities often show better academic performance. This is because these activities encourage discipline, time management, and goal-setting. Plus, Club programs help reduce risky behaviors by keeping teens engaged in positive environments during critical hours after school.
Parents and educators alike recognize the value of these programs. They provide a safe space where kids and teens can build friendships, gain confidence, and develop a sense of belonging. This social aspect is vital for emotional well-being and helps youth navigate challenges more effectively.
How After-School Activities Enhance Social and Emotional Skills
One of the most significant benefits of afterschool activities is the development of social and emotional skills. These programs encourage children to interact with peers, work in teams, and resolve conflicts. Such experiences teach empathy, cooperation, and communication, which are essential life skills. Kids and teens learn to manage their feelings and respond to others with kindness and understanding.
Additionally, afterschool activities involve mentorship. This guidance helps youth of all ages to develop self-esteem and resilience. When kids feel supported, they are more likely to take on challenges and persevere through difficulties.
Learn more about BGCCA's AfterSchool program: www.bgccapitalarea.org/afterschool
How Boys & Girls Clubs make a difference
Club afterschool programs are designed provide critical support to youth by fostering academic success through homework help and educational enrichment, building strong character and good citizenship, and promoting healthy lifestyles through physical activities and arts programs.
These programs also equip teens with a solid plan for their future, often increasing their likelihood of enrolling in and completing post-secondary education. The Club provides a safe environment with caring adult mentors during non-school hours, helping to build confidence, resilience, and social-emotional skills. Here are the areas of focus for programs at Boys & Girls Clubs:
Academic Support
Homework Help & Tutoring: Programs offer assistance with school assignments in a supportive environment.
Educational Enrichment: Club programs provide opportunities to spark creativity and foster a love for learning.
College Preparation: Help with post-secondary applications and financial aid increases the chances of enrollment and completion.
Character & Citizenship Development
Good Character: Programs help youth develop critical skills like self-confidence, motivation, and resilience.
Citizenship: Clubs foster good character and citizenship, teaching young people to be responsible members of their communities.
Healthy Lifestyles
Physical Activity: Sports programs and activities encourage exercise and help children burn energy in a healthy way.
Arts Programs: From music to drama, arts initiatives offer outlets for self-expression and creativity.
Safe & Supportive Environment
Safe Spaces: Clubs offer a secure environment for youth during critical non-school hours.
Caring Mentors: Young people benefit from the presence of caring adult mentors who help build trust and respect.
Social-Emotional Learning: Programs help children develop crucial social skills and emotional well-being.
Community & Family Benefits
Family Collaboration: Parents and staff work together in creating a supportive ecosystem for the child's growth.
Economic Benefits: By supporting youth, Clubs contribute to societal savings by helping prevent costly expenditures on healthcare and criminal justice involvement.
See all BGCCA Programs: www.bgccapitalarea.org/programs
Practical Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of AfterSchool Activities
To get the most out of afterschool activities, consider these practical recommendations:
Balance is Key - Avoid overloading kids and teens with too many activities. Ensure they have enough time for rest, homework, and family.
Encourage Consistency - Regular attendance helps youth build skills and form meaningful relationships.
Stay Involved - Parents should show interest in their kid's and teen's activities by attending events or discussing progress.
Set Goals Together - Help youth set realistic goals related to their activities, such as improving a skill or completing a project.
Promote Social Interaction - Encourage kids and teens to make friends and work collaboratively during activities.
Parents have numerous ways to support the growth of their youth and ensure afterschool activities are a positive experience.
Long-Term Impact of After-School Activities on Children’s Future
The benefits of after-school activities extend well beyond childhood. Youth who participate in these programs often develop habits and skills that contribute to success in adulthood. For example, teamwork and leadership skills gained through group activities are valuable in college and the workplace.
We see the outcomes with youth who engage in after-school activities tend to have higher self-esteem and better mental health. These positive outcomes reduce the risk of behavioral problems and improve overall life satisfaction.
Participation in diverse activities also helps children discover their passions and career interests early on. This exploration can guide educational choices and motivate lifelong learning.
Communities benefit as well, as engaged youth are more likely to become responsible, active citizens. Supporting afterschool activities is an investment in the future of both individuals and society. In fact, every $1 invested in Boys & Girls Clubs returns $10.32 in economic benefits to Club members, their families and society. These include social benefits, such as mental health, education and healthy behaviors, not accounted for in a purely financial ROI. Learn how you can support The Club: www.bgccapitalarea.org/give
Former Club Kid Quotes
"Everything you've seen or heard about me began with lessons I learned to live by at the Club." - Denzel Washington
"It just gave me a great sense of hope and really, really kickstarted my dream." - Jennifer Lopez
"Boys & Girls Clubs changed my life. It was the place where I first began to believe in myself—where mentors and programs helped me build the self-esteem I needed to chase big dreams." - Shaquille O'Neal
By encouraging children to participate in after-school activities, we provide them with opportunities to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. These experiences build a strong foundation for a healthy, successful life. Whether through sports, arts, or technology, afterschool activities at The Club enrich children's lives in meaningful ways.
Boys & Girls Clubs began providing youth services in Albany, NY back in 1892 and in Troy in 1903. Take a quick scroll back in time to learn about the origins of our Clubs on our History page.
Learn about specific Club programs for kids and teens: