We all want to do the best for our kids. When it comes to their well-being and development, this couldn’t be truer. So how do we as parents navigate the issue of extra murals?
This is a dilemma I face with my kids. Having the opportunity to engage in extra murals is already a luxury that a lot of parents cannot afford. So I wanted my children to understand that they couldn’t possibly sign up for anything and everything they felt like. We also don’t have enough time in a day to be running to various activities.
So we came up with a solution and here it is…
Each of my three kids had to learn how to swim. This was non-negotiable as swimming is a very important life skill. Neither of my boys showed any inclination to becoming Olympic swimmers so we ended their lessons – if they did, we may have continued. Over and above the swimming, they each are allowed one other extra mural of their choice.
We also considered the following:
Is it something my child is interested in?
This is most important – it shouldn’t be something that I want for them, it must be something they have a keen interest in as well.
How much time does the extra mural involve?
It shouldn’t be at the expense of homework or studies.
What do you need to purchase for the extra mural?
Is it too costly or can you manage it easily?
How far away is the venue for the extra mural?
Is it a team sport or activity? Some kids aren’t team players and may not do well at team sports. On the other hand, doing that may teach them to become team players which is also a life skill.
What are the benefits of the extra mural you’re considering? Is it solely for enjoyment or are there other advantages as well?
I’d say my main considerations are cost and time. If we do too much we all become moody and tired and it stops being fun. I’d like them each to stick to something for long enough to master it and so that they realise that once you’ve made a choice, you need to see it through.
By Fatima Kazee