The world of the 21st century is a competitive one. Students are expected to not only understand concepts in their academic curriculums but also excel outside the classroom. These extracurricular opportunities help students experience different things that can't be learned through books or lectures.
At Mountain West Montessori Academy, we encourage extracurricular activities because we want our students to grow into well-rounded adults.
Here are five reasons why extracurriculars are important for students:

1. Students Connect with Others

In a social media world, students can easily remain isolated in their bubble. To stay competitive and be successful, they need to know how to interact with other people. They can do this through extracurriculars like sports, music, theatre, debate, community groups, etc.
Furthermore, not all extracurriculars involve playing an instrument or joining a sports team. There are plenty of arts and service projects to get involved in as well.

2. They Learn Team Work

Montessori education teaches that through collaboration and teamwork, they can accomplish more than they would if they were working by themselves. This experience allows them to learn valuable lessons that will help them through life and in their careers.

3. Exposure to Different People and Experiences

When we experience or see things that are outside of our everyday lives, we learn about new cultures and ways of life. This broadens the way students think, which is critical when considering future career paths and life after school.

4. Participation in Extracurriculars Boosts Confidence

Having confidence in oneself is an important predictor of happiness and success. Young people who are involved in extracurriculars tend to surpass the less active peers academically, emotionally, socially, and physically.

At Montessori School Mountain West Montessori Academy, we encourage students to be involved in extracurricular activities. It not only builds character but also strengthens their confidence.

5. Students Become More Well-Rounded Individuals

This allows them to explore different areas of interest. They find hidden talents, try new things outside their comfort zone, and develop into a more interesting person. This focus on development helps students feel that they have grown up during their time at school.

Final Thoughts

Extracurricular activities are important not only in Montessori education but for all students because they prepare them to take on the world. At Mountain West Montessori Academy, we have numerous opportunities for our students to develop themselves outside the classroom.

Our extracurriculars offer an escape from the daily demands of academics that allows students to find themselves or try something new.