Extracurricular activities

[salac303]

I am wondering what some opinions may be about foster youth and extracurricular activities. I feel strongly that these youth are already at such a great disadvantage, why should they be deprived of participating in sports, dance, art lessons, music lessons, etc. Is there anyone who has negative feelings toward the issue? I also feel that it would help these kids to gain confidence, learn life-coping skills, responsibility, make new friends...it would help them in the long run, when they age-out of the system. I also feel that it would keep them "off the streets," out of trouble, and give them something else to look forward to. It would definately help them not to feel so isolated from their peers, give them more confidence. Are there any thoughts, experiences that need to be shared? Is it all more difficult than I imagine?

[Karen Jorgenson]

Extracurricular activites are extremely valuable for children and youth in foster care. In fact, most state foster parent associations are recipients of funding to help cover the costs of these activities.

[lovemykids2008]

My foster son has been involved in sports and other activities from day one. The day after he was placed with us I took him to the YMCA and he was signed up for basketball and soccer. He also wants to start on a bowling league and wants to do karate. It helps give them a sense of being "normal" and he has made great new friends. ALSO the YMCA gives foster children scholarships so it costs us very very little. I really encourage it and he really enjoys it.

[nothismom]

Hello there, I totally agree that sports and activities are great for any kid! It will help them feel normal and learn to socialize appropriately. I know this will sound a little bad, but as they progress into their teens, it also becomes something they can really take a lot of pride in, and strive to get good grades and attend school to accomplish, so it also becomes a good "tool" for you as a parent to ask for a respectful tone when they speak to you and such...I don't hold it over my foster son's head, but I do remind him that he has a lot to lose if he doesn't do things corretly...there are consequences to bad behaviors, they won't get to do the things they really want to do-I think it makes my FS think twice before agreeing to go to a party or skip school...he has pride in his football playing. So there is my two cents.

[samuelcaleb]

I totally agree that sports and activities are great for any kid..... It will help them to feel normal and learn to socialize in common...As they progress into their teens, it also becomes something they can really take a lot of pride in, and strive to get good grades and attend school to accomplish........
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samuelcaleb

SuperBabyGuide (http://www.superbabyguide.com)

[fostermombomb]

We have our first foster daughter...she is 9, and she honestly acted like it was Christmas when I told her I could budget in gymnastics and swimming for her. She'd never had those opportunities before coming to stay with us, and she has been THRIVING since doing both activities. I was worried it would be a bit overwhelming for her at first, but it burns off all that extra energy, and she's just loving it! So I say DEFINITELY do extracurriculars if it's in the budget!
Here in Northern IL, our DCFS has discounted rates at the swim club and also at the gymnastics academy...and I think also the YMCA, but we haven't been there yet!
GOOD LUCK! :o

[CAFostermom]

I agree - place these kids in activities that will be beneficial to improve their self confidence, self esteem and help them learn life lessons. The YMCA is a great source for programs. The Indian guides/princess program is great, because they get to experience the feeling of family and acceptance. Their sports programs are nice - plus they last generally 6-8 weeks, so if they don't like a particular sport they can try another one. We put our foster kids in Tae Kown Do - it helped them with respect and also improve their memory/focus skills. Until the kids feel comfortable with sports, try to put them in noncompetitive leagues - there are many leagues which are way too competitive, and that would not be good! If the kids don't like sports, there are a ton of other activities they can do; music, art, etc. My FD loves to sing so we put her in a choir. The point - get them out of the house! :) They will be able to establish great peer relationships and get a sense of accomplishment. Perhaps your city our county parks and recreation has some information on various activities. Good luck.

[JoshDennis]

yep i agreee,well kids shud b allowed tae do wteva theye want wivout ne restrictions .

i will fully allow my daughter tae do nethin she wud want tae do .
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