Your cart is currently empty!
Extracurriculars Beyond Sports
As I stood in the sweltering August heat, I squinted toward the man in the stands waving his arms like a traffic cop directing a parade. That was our coach, Tom, overseeing our high school color guard practice. We had been marching under the blazing sun for hours, following his instructions as he adjusted our formation on the field. He taught us how to wield our flags and added flair to our dance moves, fine-tuning our marching skills.
During band camp, we dedicated ourselves to this pursuit for a grueling eight hours a day, five days a week, all in preparation for the upcoming season of supporting our football team. Once school kicked off, we practiced late into the evenings several days a week, with weekends filled with traveling alongside our high school football team to perform pregame shows or entertain the home crowd. I often returned home late at night, only to wake up for school bright and early. My weekends became a whirlwind of football games, band competitions, and local parades.
Despite my enthusiasm and dedication to the color guard, I couldn’t shake the feeling that it didn’t receive the same recognition as traditional sports like football or basketball. I cringed at the thoughtless comments about not being able to make it on the field, or the jabs at our “band geek” status and our flashy uniforms (okay, I admit, mine did have some pretty eye-catching orange sequins).
But I didn’t let the naysayers stop me. I pursued what I loved, and now, as a parent, I wholeheartedly support my kids’ involvement in activities that don’t come adorned with letterman jackets or trophies. Just because they aren’t kicking soccer balls or swinging bats doesn’t mean they lack commitment or passion for their craft.
My kids have taken a deep dive into the world of theater, and let me tell you, their schedules are packed when they’re gearing up for a show. The unsung heroes of the extracurricular realm are definitely those theater kids. They aren’t just memorizing lines for an hour-long performance; they’re mastering intricate dance routines and getting hands-on experience with technical theater, like running light and sound boards. Some even step into leadership roles as student directors.
The hours they invest in vocal coaching, costume design, and set construction are immense. By the time the curtain rises, they’ve poured months of effort into ensuring every note and step is flawless. These kids deserve Tony Awards for their hard work!
When my children were younger, we enrolled them in Scouting, a family tradition that goes back generations. In those early years, Scouts learn about their communities by visiting local firehouses and police stations, while also picking up critical life skills and the importance of volunteering. They develop a sense of responsibility toward the Earth and engage in community service projects.
Now that my son is 13, he’s on the path to achieving his Eagle Scout rank. This journey requires him to put in countless hours hiking, mastering survival skills, and understanding his community’s values. To earn the Eagle Scout designation, he must complete a project that significantly benefits his community, showcasing his dedication and determination. Unfortunately, these kids often go unnoticed just because their uniforms lack a number on the back.
Whether it’s a child who plays the violin beautifully or someone spending hours in a dance studio preparing for a competition, there’s a vibrant life beyond traditional sports. Every child possesses a talent that deserves recognition and encouragement. If it means helping a kid nail their speech for a student council election or driving them to a gaming competition, we should celebrate their pursuit of dreams—scoreboards and referees be damned!
In today’s world, where social media and constant internet access reign, the arts and other non-sport activities are just as vital—if not more so. I recently attended a Powder Puff football game where my daughter was one of the cheerleaders. As my husband and I soaked in the bright lights, the familiar buzz of students milling about, and the tempting aromas wafting from the snack stand, I couldn’t help but reminisce about my own days as a marching band member. When the high school band struck up their cadence and marched onto the field, I nearly jumped up to grab a flag and join in the fun.
Those memories are irreplaceable, and I hope my kids will look back on their high school experiences with the same fondness someday.
For more insights on the importance of various extracurricular activities, you can check out some of our other blog posts, like this one on terms and conditions. If you’re interested in home insemination options, CryoBaby offers some great kits to consider. And for a deeper understanding of the topic, the Genetics and IVF Institute is an excellent resource.
Summary
Extracurricular activities extend beyond sports, encompassing the arts, scouting, and more. These pursuits provide valuable life skills and dedication, deserving equal recognition. Parents should celebrate their children’s diverse talents and interests, whether it’s theater, music, or community service.