Have you somehow managed to get your kid to step away from the smartphone, gaming console, or television to engage in activities? Congratulations! For many parents, beating out the entertaining lure of the virtual world isn’t a cake walk. Since your kids enjoy doing hobbies or participating in extracurricular activities that don’t involve a mobile device, it’s best you do what you can to show your support.
Whether you have a hectic schedule that minimizes the time you have to spend with your kids or you’re raising complicated teenagers who would rather die than have you show up at their school to cheer them on, there are lots of ways you can let them know how proud you are that they’re participating in activities they enjoy. Even encouraging them for fun activities goes a long way in connecting with your child. Check out some of the collections at kids ride wild and keep reading for some more awesome tips:
Show Up
As long as your child hasn’t made this a rule (teenagers are quick to ask you not to show up for events), one of the most common ways to show your kids that you support their hobbies or activities is to show up. If your kid is acting in a school play, take time off from work to sit front row. Being present and cheering them on will boost their self-esteem and let them know they have someone in their corner that supports their efforts.
Donate
If time is something you don’t have a lot of, or you don’t want to “embarrass” your kid by showing up, another way to support hobbies and activities is to donate. If your teen, for example, were on a high school softball team. You could order custom socks for the team in the school colors and send them to the coach as a donation. This helps the school out, is really cool for the team, and sends a message to your child that you are proud of them.
Volunteer
Not all hobbies or extracurricular activities involve putting together events. If your child were on the boy or girl’s scout troop in your neighborhood, for instance, there aren’t many events to show up for. What you can do, however, that’s just as valuable is volunteer your time. Bake brownies for an upcoming sale, stand outside of grocery stores selling cookies, or maybe go on a camping trip as a chaperone. Your child will love that fact that you’re involved in something they like.
Buy Supplies
Do you have a kid who loves the arts? Arts and crafts are an excellent hobby as it is a creative way to express yourself. They may not have any events for you to show up to or instances where you might need to volunteer, but you can show your support by purchasing supplies for them. Look for deals on paints, canvases, pencils, brushes, and other supplies so that your child can continue to hone in on their skills. The additional supplies will be greatly appreciated.
Enroll Them in Classes
Perhaps there’s something your kid is interested in doing but they aren’t sure how to get started. You can give them some support by enrolling them in classes to learn. Dance classes or music lessons can teach them skills they never had before and bring about a passion that they continue pursuing throughout life. Giving them the foundation they need through education will certainly put a smile on their faces.
Sing Their Praises
Likely one of the best ways to support your child’s hobbies or extracurricular activities is to speak on it. Sing their praises every time you can. Let them know you’re proud of them. Talk about their participation to friends and family. Who knows, maybe you can even highlight special moments by posting it on social media. Children are often encouraged when they know their parents are proud and approve.
Supporting your children when they’re doing positive things is important. It lets them know that they’re on the right track and that they can accomplish anything they put their minds to. If your children are engaged in hobbies or extracurricular activities, find ways to show them just how proud you are. From tiny tots to complicated teenagers, there are lots of big and small things you can do to show your presence and your joy for what they’re doing.
