 Extra Curricular Activities for the Homeschooler
Extracurricular activities for the homeschooler may seem far out of reach. These activities are generally not included within the regular academic curriculum. Many people may think of such activities to mean sports, or anything that involves physical activity. Extracurricular activities can include debate, sports, field trips, martial arts, science clubs and the likes. As homeschoolers our activities can be reinforcements to our curriculum, not just an outside activity. There are many different activities that can be done with children we just have to get creative and think outside of the box. There are plethoras of ways to get your child involved in activities. One of the first things that you should do is to identify the kinds of activities your child/children would enjoy doing. As you identify the activities that you would like to do with your child/children look and see if you can find groups that offer parents the option to join in and take part their planned activities. Many homeschool groups have trips already planned and are looking for homeschoolers who would like to take part with them. As Muslims we may not want to join in with the activities but, it can give you an idea of what you may be able to accomplish with your child. Many of us have local Masaajid that we attend, is it possible for you to start a weekend program for the children in the community? Perhaps arts and crafts, community sports, science clubs or anything along the lines that fits in with your goals for your child. Parents are always looking for activities for their children and perhaps you are the answer to fill in the void. Masha Allah we are truly blessed to have Islaam which encourages community and family bonds. We as parents have to step up and be the positive role models for our children and show them what it means to be a family. We need to teach them what it means to look out for one another and how to truly “be” there for each other. Although, we may homeschool our children that doesn’t mean that we have to shelter them from life. We can try to shelter them from the things that can harm them but, all the while allowing them to gain the experience needed in life so that they will have the tools to protect themselves. Coming together in this community effort can be beneficial to you in more ways than you know. These activities can be a way for your homeschooled child to gain socialization skills and also extracurricular activities in which their peers take part of, and reinforcing an Islaamic upbringing. Umm Abdis Salaam al Grenaadiyyah | 
