after-school activity

You don’t have to search too hard to discover a wide array of enrichment activities in Indianapolis. In fact, there are so many fun, interesting and educational activities available for kids in this city, that choosing one can seem a little overwhelming. So, how can a parent determine which activity is right for their child? “Activities for younger children should be focused on friendship-building through games and play,” says Erin Mills, managing director of early childhood education and youth at the Arthur M. Glick JCC in Indianapolis. “At this age, the activity itself isn’t as important as the other children in the program. Activities for second through fifth graders should be focused on exploration and development of special interests. This age is when children should be trying different activities, such as sports, arts, STEM, music. As they gravitate to a particular area, parents should seek out more in-depth programs in the area. Activities for 6th through 9th graders should incorporate more autonomy and responsibility.” Fortunately, you really can’t go wrong when it comes to choosing an enrichment activity for your kid. If you try something and it and doesn’t seem to be the right fit, you can always try a different activity. What’s important is getting out there and exploring the possibilities. By doing so, you’re helping your child develop confidence and social skills, and exposing their rapidly growing brains to new experiences. “Allow the activities, no matter what they are, to be a space for exploration and learning,” Mills says. “Where they are and the quality of the program is often more important than the age they are doing it.” If you’re still wondering what kind of enrichment activities would best suit your child, take our fun quiz to find out! 1. If I let my kid plan the day, we’d most likely end up spending a lot of time: A. Running, climbing, jumping, playing, swimming or playing a sport. He loves to be active. B. Pulling out the craft supplies and creating works of art C. Getting our groove on while dancing and making music D. Coming up with various experiments to learn how things work E. I can’t pick just one! He likes to do so many different things. 2. If you checked your child’s jacket pockets right now, you’d probably find: A. rocks, twigs and other treasures from nature B. broken crayons and glitter C. a plastic kazoo that he got at a friend’s birthday party D. some creation that he made from a paper clip and rubber band E. lint fuzz balls 3. Your child’s favorite class or activity at school is: A. Gym B. Art C. Music D. Math or science E. Lunch 4. When you think about your child’s future career, you can see her being: A. An athletic coach B. An artist C. A professional musician D. An engineer E. I have no idea! She has so many talents. 5. Pick a word that best describes your child. A. Adventurous B. Artistic C. Musical D. Analytical E. Eclectic 6. Where is your child’s “happy place”? A. Outdoors or someplace where he has freedom to move B. In an art studio or museum C. Anywhere that has music and/or dancing D. The LEGO store E. At home 7. You take your child to the dollar store and let her pick out one item. What does she choose? A. A ball or hula hoop B. A watercolor paint set C. A play microphone D. A DIY paper airplane kit E. A sweet treat SCORE Mostly As: The Mover and Shaker. It sounds like your child would thrive outdoors or somewhere where he can move his body! Try seeking out enrichment activities where your child can get out in nature and explore, as well as places where he can discover different sports and athletic activities. Enrichment activities to try: AquaTots Boy Scouts Girl Scouts of Central Indiana Goldfish Swim School Gymboree IUPUI Natatorium The Little Gym Mostly Bs: The Little Artist. Your child loves to craft, paint, create – anything that allows her to use her hands and imagination. Enrichment activities to try: Indianapolis Art Center Mostly Cs: Tiny Dancer (or Musician) Your kid moves to the beat of his own drum – sometimes literally! Enrichment activities to try: Kindermusik of Indianapolis Indianapolis Children’s Choir Meridian Music Mostly Ds: The STEAM Machine. Your little engineer or budding scientist thrives when he’s solving problems and exploring how his world works. Enrichment activities to try: IUPUI Center for Young Children Gymboree Mostly Es: The Eclectic Kid. Your child likes a little bit of everything, and that’s great! Seek out places that offer a wide range of enrichment activities. Enrichment activities to try: Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Indy Parks and Recreation YMCA of Greater Indianapolis

after-school activity

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Quiz: Which enrichment activity best suits your child?

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