Back to School Balance: Why Movement After School Matters

New school supplies, fresh faces, the anticipation of new beginnings — back-to-school excitement is buzzing! While all kids have different feelings about the start of a new school year, there’s one thing that kids and parents alike can agree on: kids need to run, jump, and play after school.

In fact, maintaining a balance of academics with physical activities is essential for children’s development. With school kicking off on Monday, Aug. 12th and Sunny’s Showcase Open House on Friday,  Aug. 16th, we’re excited to meet more families and get more kids moving after school this year. In this blog, we’ll explore the many wonderful benefits of engaging in physical activities after school, offer practical tips for creating a balanced lifestyle for your child, and share a sneak peek of what to expect at Sunny’s Showcase.

Did you know that physical activity can significantly boost your child’s brain power? Studies have shown that regular exercise improves kids’ cognitive function — meaning their concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills all benefit. Engaging in activities like dance, gymnastics, or even a brisk walk can stimulate brain function and enhance cognitive abilities. Experts agree that incorporating physical movement into daily routines can lead to better academic performance. When kids get their bodies moving, they also get their brains moving, leading to improved focus and learning outcomes.

Physical activity is not just about keeping fit; it’s about building strong bodies and developing healthy habits. After-school programs like Sun Country’s FUNrichment that include activities such as gymnastics, dance, or rock climbing can help increase strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. These activities combat sedentary habits prevalent in today’s digital age. Encouraging your child to participate in such programs can lay the foundation for a lifelong commitment to fitness, as children who engage in regular physical activity are more likely to maintain a healthy lifestyle as they grow older.

Did you know that physical activity does wonders for emotional well-being? Movement helps reduce stress and anxiety, leading to better emotional regulation. When children engage in team sports or group activities, they learn invaluable social skills, such as teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution. These experiences foster friendships and create a sense of belonging. By participating in physical activities, children not only keep their bodies healthy but also nurture their emotional and social development.

Parents play a vital role in achieving balance in their child’s life. Encouraging participation in after-school activities and setting realistic expectations can make a significant difference. Here are three key ways that you can help: 

• Create a balanced schedule: Balancing homework, extracurricular activities, and relaxation requires effective time management. Parents can help by setting a consistent routine that includes dedicated time for each activity. A well-structured schedule ensures that children have time to excel academically while also enjoying their favorite physical activities.
• Celebrate your child’s efforts: No matter how big or small their achievements, celebrating your child’s efforts can boost their confidence and motivation. Being supportive and involved in your child’s activities shows them that you value their interests and efforts, and your encouragement can help them develop a positive attitude toward balancing academics and physical activities. 
• Find the right fit: All children have different interests and needs, and often it takes some “trial and error” to find the right fit. Consider your child’s interests and strengths when choosing programs. Whether it’s gymnastics, dance, rock climbing, or team sports, there’s an activity out there that will engage and inspire your child. Similarly, the right after-school program can ignite a lifelong love for physical activity and personal development. 

With Sun Country being the premier place for kids to move and have fun since 1987, we know how important it is to find the right after-school activity! That’s one of the reasons that we offer Sunny’s Showcase Open House each year around the time school begins. 

Designed for your kids to sample various classes, they can take a 20-minute sample class* for just $4 to help decide which programs are the best fit! All skill levels are welcome, as this event is all about allowing kids to explore different activities in a supportive environment. Sign up for one or as many sample classes as you’d like across the following programs:

• Gymnastics
• Tumbling
• Ninja
• Dance
• Rock Wall
• Karate

We also will offer tours of FUNrichment After-School during Sunny’s Showcase. This is another fantastic way to get your kids moving after school, as FUNrichment students get to experience all of the fun that Sun Country offers by rotating through activity stations throughout the gym (they even get to swim!).

* Students must be new to the program to take a sample class; Space is limited, pre-register to reserve your classes.

As the school year unfolds and we all inevitably get busy, remember that regular physical activity not only boosts brain power but also builds strong bodies and fosters emotional and social skills. Creating balanced routines and selecting the right after-school programs can help achieve the right balance for your children, and your support as a parent is invaluable! By enrolling your child in after-school programs that promote physical activity, you are setting them on a path to a balanced and healthy lifestyle — and that’s what matters most. Have a great school year, everyone!