Benefits of Enrichment Programs for Children

Many parents are looking for a preschool or elementary school that offers enrichment programs to give their child a well-rounded education. Here are some of the benefits of enrichment programs for children.

Better performance in school

According to a study by psychologists Dr. Deborah Lowe Vandell and Dr. Jill Posner, enrichment activities can help children develop skills that help them perform better in school. The study found that children who had access to structured after-school enrichment activities had better work habits than children in the study who didn't take part in these activities. They also had higher grades than other children in the study. Enrichment activities can help teach children skills such as concentration, persistence, and problem-solving, which can help them to do better in other areas of their education.

Increased social skills

Enrichment programs can be a fun way for your child to learn, but they also help them learn valuable social skills. In a long-term research study, Dr. Milbrey McLaughlin noted that, in extracurricular and enrichment programs, teachers were not only showing children how to perform the task at hand, but were also teaching them secondary skills such as communication. A good enrichment program for your child will encourage group collaboration and cooperation. For example, KLA Schools' Atelier encourages children to experience visual arts in small groups, exploring new ideas together.

Greater fine and gross motor skills

Enrichment programs can help your child develop their fine and gross motor skills. Activities such as painting and using musical instruments develop fine motor skills such as dexterity and hand-eye coordination. Physical activities such as dance and sports strengthen gross motor skills. Running, hopping, jumping, and moving give children opportunities to express themselves physically while developing a range of skills.

Self-expression and creativity

Many enrichment programs, such as art, music, and dance, allow children to express themselves in new ways they may not normally be exposed to. This self-expression leads to a greater exploration of creativity. Enrichment programs help your child learn more about themselves and how they can express their feelings and thoughts in a creative way. Increased self-expression and creativity can also lead to increased confidence.

Language, literacy, and math skills

Many extracurricular and enrichment programs offer language and math programs. But did you know that other enrichment programs can strengthen these skills as well? For example, music can build several related skills, such as language, and literacy. In addition, the recognition of patterns and shapes in music is a building block in developing strong math skills.

Extracurricular and enrichment programs are an ideal way for your child to broaden their horizons and learn more about their world. They also offer a host of benefits that can stay with your child as they grow. Learn more about KLA Schools’ extracurricular and enrichment programs for your child.