Watch Your Child Blossom in Extracurriculars
Summer Safety and ADHD
June 12, 2024
It’s well understood that extracurricular activities are beneficial to children and teens. But, did you know: For our young people with ADHD, less-developed social skills, or other learning differences, they can be even more valuable!
At Springer, extracurriculars are a huge part of school life. In fact 75% or more of our students participate in a variety Springer-hosted extracurriculars every year. High School Assistant Director Julie Marcoux reflects on what she observed this year:
I love how Springer High School provides the students the chance to take part in sports and activities they might not otherwise have the chance to do at a larger school. Our students are also afforded the opportunity to be a leader which in turn builds their confidence fostering motivation and success.
Like CHADD, we believe that it’s important to help students discover and build on their islands of competence. Activities that are run by knowledgeable educators can be excellent ways for students to practice their social skills in a safe setting with peers. These are opportunities for discovering passions and strengths, too.
When students participate in activities with classmates, we see them connect with new friends and form bonds over shared interests.
Springer Counselor & Student Life Coordinator Rachel Eccles shares what she enjoys most:
I love watching our students find their passion and make new friends in the process. During commencement this year, it brought tears to my eyes when a student reported he didn't feel like he had friends until he joined the chess club and another boy invited him to play chess. He said the boy turned into his first friend that day and has been his best friend ever since. That is what After School Activities are all about.
Springer is fortunate to work closely with extracurricular providers who form an understanding of the needs of our student body. But ADHD and LD are no reason to avoid activities in typical settings, too.
For parents who are nervous about how their child might fare in activities run by adults with less an understanding of ADHD or learning challenges, you may need to have extra communication with the activity leaders, and plan to a little be more involved. (More on that, here.)
Don’t let your child’s challenges deter you, because there is much to be gained from trying something new!
