Most parents in India feel that quality education is all about academic excellence. However, one must understand that education is not only about acquiring knowledge, but also about finding out ways in which the acquired knowledge can be applied in real-life situations intelligently. Moreover, when your child learns only to pass his exams, his/her mind will be developed in a unidimensional manner. Always remember that for the overall development of your child, it is important to engage your child in different types of interesting activities. Since these activities are considered to be beyond the set curriculum of the school, they are called as extracurricular activities. Let’s understand the benefits of extracurricular activities in a student’s life. Improves concentration Some games increase the concentration levels of the students. This is mainly because, students generally like to take part in such games and enjoy the entire process. When your child willingly takes part in these games, they are more focussed at the task they are assigned. Skill enhancement Through various types of activities, children can develop different types of skills. Most schools today have the infrastructure to teach sports, arts, drawing, craft etc. Many of the schools also have clay work, dance, music and other such sessions. Gardening is also a very good activity for kids that will help them get closer to nature. Understanding inner potential Not all students are good at academics. But each one has his or her unique talents. When a student engages in different kinds of extracurricular activities, he or she will get a chance to analyse personal strengths and weaknesses. When they know what they are good at, they can also plan their carrier depending on their field of interest. Improves learning capabilities When a child occupies his or her mind in different kinds of activities, he or she becomes much sharper and the ability to learn new concepts also increases. Apart from that, these activities are like a refreshing break for in their academic life. It is important for them to refresh their mind regularly so that they can come back their desks and start studying again with renewed energy and focus. Teaches different values There are certain group activities that can teach your child how to work in teams. Other activities like recitation and poetry can get rid of their stage fright or fear of public speaking. Dancing and singing can free up their minds and make them more confident from within. Some activities can improve decision making skills as well. Good schools plan their curriculum in such a way that students develop their personality in every dimension. Makes students ready for the future After completing education, students have to start facing the real world and explore various possibilities. Extracurricular activities are important for the overall development of your child and make them ready for the challenges that they might have to face in their life. It is believed that a student who enjoys his childhood is more keen about learning new things in life. Many parents fail to understand the importance of extracurricular activities in a student’s life. By not encouraging children to take part in these activities, you will only be forcing them to do something they don’t really like doing. So, always keep your mind open and let your child choose what he or she wants to do in life.