In today’s fast-paced world, where academic performance is often considered the ultimate marker of a child’s potential, it’s easy to overlook the power of extracurricular activities.
Yet, activities like debate, drama, music, dance, sports, and even art clubs play a crucial role in shaping a child’s personality and building their confidence.
For Indian parents who want their children to grow into well-rounded, self-assured individuals, extracurriculars are more than just a hobby- they’re a gateway to lifelong success.
Let’s explore how participating in activities beyond textbooks helps children gain confidence, develop leadership, and unlock their full potential.
The Changing Landscape of Education in India
Gone are the days when “padho, padho aur sirf padho” (study, study, and only study) was the golden rule in every Indian household.
While academics are still important, modern Indian parents are beginning to understand that holistic development is key.
Schools too, especially CBSE and ICSE boards, are encouraging extracurricular involvement as part of the Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) framework.
Whether your child is in a school in Mumbai, a small town in Kerala, or attending online classes in Delhi, access to extracurriculars is now easier than ever.
What Are Extracurricular Activities?
Extracurricular activities are anything outside the standard academic curriculum that allow children to explore their interests, express themselves, and build life skills. These can include:
- Debate and Elocution
- Drama and Theatre
- Music and Dance
- Art and Craft
- Sports and Athletics
- Storytelling and Creative Writing
- Science Clubs, Quizzing, and Robotics
- Community Service and Scouts/Guides
Each of these contributes in a unique way to a child’s personal growth.
Confidence: The Foundation of Future Success
One of the biggest gifts extracurriculars offer is confidence. But what does confidence really mean?
For a child, it’s the ability to raise their hand in class, speak without fear on stage, try something new without worrying about failure, and interact comfortably with peers and adults.
Confidence isn’t taught in a textbook. It’s built through experience, one step at a time.
How Debate Builds Confidence and Communication
Imagine a shy child who can barely speak up in class. Now picture them standing at a school debate competition, confidently making their case on “Should students have homework?”
Debate helps children:
- Think critically and logically.
- Improve public speaking.
- Learn to listen and respect opposing views.
- Speak clearly and structure thoughts under pressure.
In a country like India, debate clubs in English and regional languages help children overcome language-related hesitations and become articulate.
Drama & Theatre: A Playground for Expression
Drama and theatre allow children to express emotions, understand different perspectives, and step into someone else’s shoes– literally.
Involvement in drama helps children:
- Lose their stage fright.
- Improve voice modulation, body language, and posture.
- Collaborate in teams and understand timing.
- Develop empathy and imagination.
Indian schools often include drama in school annual days or events like Republic Day and Independence Day celebrations. These performances create memorable learning experiences that stay with children for life.
Music, Dance & Art: Expressive Confidence
Art forms help children express what words can’t. Whether it’s the beat of the tabla, a Bharatnatyam pose, or a charcoal sketch, these forms of self-expression are crucial for emotional growth.
Here’s how they boost confidence:
- Mastery over a skill leads to pride and self-belief.
- Performing or showcasing their work gives children a sense of achievement.
- Creative pursuits often lead to flow state, increasing focus and reducing stress.
Indian culture is rich with classical, folk, and modern art forms. Encouraging kids to learn regional dances or classical music not only connects them to heritage but also boosts their self-esteem.
Sports: Confidence Through Physicality and Teamwork
From gully cricket in Hyderabad to football coaching classes in Pune, sports are everywhere. Apart from physical health benefits, sports teach children discipline, perseverance, and resilience.
Confidence comes when:
- Children learn to win with humility and lose with grace.
- They improve their stamina and strength.
- They interact in teams and develop leadership.
Sports can be especially empowering for girls, breaking gender stereotypes and building equal participation from a young age.
Real-Life Benefits of Extracurricular Participation
1. Better Communication Skills
Whether your child is presenting a science model or performing a monologue, they learn to speak clearly and confidently.
2. Leadership Development
Organizing a school event, captaining a sports team, or leading a drama group teaches valuable leadership and decision-making skills.
3. Improved Academic Performance
Contrary to the myth, extracurricular activities actually enhance academic performance by improving focus, time management, and cognitive ability.
4. Higher Emotional Intelligence
Activities help children express and regulate emotions better, leading to improved self-awareness and interpersonal skills.
5. Social Confidence
Children learn to interact with peers from different backgrounds, improving their social adaptability- an essential life skill in today’s global world.
Overcoming Indian Parent Fears: “Will It Distract from Studies?”
A common worry among Indian parents is, “If my child spends time on extracurriculars, will they fall behind in studies?”
The answer is no, provided there’s balance.
In fact, studies from Indian and international education boards have shown that children engaged in at least one extracurricular activity perform better academically and report higher levels of satisfaction and confidence.
Here’s how you can ensure balance:
- Choose 1 or 2 activities, not too many.
- Let your child pick what excites them.
- Set a schedule that includes both studies and hobbies.
- Talk to teachers if you’re unsure of what the school offers.
Extracurriculars in India: Accessible and Affordable
From school clubs and tuition centers to online platforms, extracurricular access is increasing across India.
Parents can also explore:
- Local music/dance schools
- City-based theatre groups for children
- Debate/quiz clubs like Indian Youth Debating Society
- Sports academies
Many cities also have low-cost or NGO-run classes for arts and drama- ideal for working parents or budget-conscious families.
Encouraging Your Child: Tips for Parents
Here are a few ways you can support your child’s confidence journey through extracurriculars:
1. Be Curious, Not Controlling
Ask your child what they want to try. Don’t push them into what you enjoyed as a child.
2. Celebrate Small Wins
Whether it’s participation in a school play or scoring a goal- celebrate effort, not just outcome.
3. Be Present
Attend your child’s performances or competitions. Your presence matters more than your praise.
4. Provide a Safe Space at Home
Allow them to practice, fail, and grow without judgement. This builds true confidence.
5. Don’t Compare
Every child has a different pace. Applaud their uniqueness instead of comparing them to siblings or classmates.
Final Thoughts
In the Indian education system, marks still matter- but they are no longer enough. The world is looking for confident communicators, empathetic leaders, creative thinkers, and emotionally resilient individuals.
Debate, drama, sports, music, and other extracurriculars offer our children a platform to become their best selves.
So, the next time your child wants to join a dance class or sign up for a school play, say yes. It might just be the stepping stone to their self-confidence, success, and happiness.
FAQ’s
Q1. At what age should my child start extracurriculars?
A: As early as 4-5 years, depending on the child’s interest and maturity. Start small and expand based on their enthusiasm.
Q2. Will extracurriculars affect my child’s studies?
A: No, when balanced well, they enhance academic performance by improving focus and motivation.
Q3. Are online extracurricular classes effective?
A: Yes, especially for skill-based learning like music, coding, storytelling, or debate practice.
Q4. What if my child wants to quit an activity mid-way?
A: That’s okay! Explore other options. The goal is exploration, not perfection.
Q5. How do I find good extracurricular options in my city?
A: Ask your child’s school, explore local community centers, or search online for reviews and parent forums.
