If you're a parent of a middle schooler, you know how hard it can be to find activities that are fun, engaging, and educational. It can feel like a full-time job keeping up with your kids' interests, and it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of things they want to do every day.
That's why we've put together this list of fresh middle school activities for after school. We've tried to include some of the most popular pastimes in schools today so that you can focus on what matters most: your child's education!
The Best Middle School Activities for After School
- Object Recycling
Object recycling is a great way to teach kids about the importance of keeping our environment clean. It's also an excellent way to get them engaged in something that's not as easy as it seems, but will have them thinking about how they can help out their community.
- Craft Club
Crafts, like sewing and knitting, are a great way to make something with your hands. These activities also give students a chance to practice problem-solving skills while they're making something.
- Prepare Handmade Gifts
Have you ever made a homemade gift for someone? It's so much fun! If you haven't, today is the day to try it out. This activity is perfect for creating new memories with your friends, so invite some of them over to help you!
- Be the Scientist Game
This is one of the best middle school activities for after school. It gets your kid’s minds working while having fun at the same time. Your only job is to find a science experiment they’re intrigued by and set up the supplies to make it happen!
- Choir or Band
A choir or band is a great way for kids to get involved in music outside of their classrooms. Choirs are more likely to have an instructor who teaches the students how to sing, whereas bands generally don't have such an option since most kids learn by ear and practice.
- Drama Club
Drama club is a great way for children to develop their communication skills, learn how to work as a team, and express themselves. Drama clubs also help kids learn about working under pressure. They’re ideal for kids who are shy as it helps them get out of their shell!
- Book Club/Writing Club
This is a fun way for kids to get together and read books together. It's also great for practicing writing skills, which will help them later in life when they are writing essays or short stories.
- Cooking
Cooking with your family and friends can be a great way for you to spend time together and bond over healthy food. This activity is also great because it allows students who may not know how to cook yet or are too busy with schoolwork or extracurriculars to learn how!
- Martial Arts
Martial arts is one of our favorite middle school activities for after school because it helps kids learn self-discipline, respect others and be confident. It also teaches them how to be respectful of others. By practicing martial arts you can make sure that your child will have a healthy lifestyle as well as good mental health later on in life. Make sure you take a look at our explore page to find some martial arts classes near you!
- Community Service
Community service is a great way to give back to the community and make new friends. It's also a chance for you to develop a sense of responsibility. You'll be helping out at an organization or nonprofit, which will teach you about different cultures and communities.
- Organize Kid Theatre
The theater is a great way to encourage kids to express themselves, learn about teamwork, and build confidence. Kids can be involved in every aspect of theater, from acting to writing and directing. Theater can help kids develop their social skills, leadership skills, and self-esteem.
- Guessing Game
Guessing games are a great way to pass time in the afternoon. If you have a group of friends or family members, you can play this game outdoors or indoors! Guessing games are also an excellent way to teach children how to think critically and make good decisions under pressure.
- Play Chess
This is a game of strategy, where you and your opponent are trying to win by putting your pieces in the right positions. It's a great way to improve your hand-eye coordination and concentration, which will help you in everything you do!
- Drawing
Drawing is a great way to express yourself, especially if you're in the middle of a creative slump. It can also be a good way to learn about perspective and composition you'll need these skills once you're an adult!
- Clean the House
If you're looking to get your kids involved in an activity that will keep them busy and engaged after school, consider cleaning the house. It's a great way to teach them how to clean up after themselves, keep their rooms tidy and tidy their toys.
Final Thoughts on Middle School Activities for After School
Teenagers are young adults. Their lives are full of new challenges, and they often struggle with the pressure to fit in with their peers. To stay healthy, happy, and engaged in school and extracurricular activities, teens need to have a balance of socialization opportunities outside of school. There are many different types of middle school activities for after school that can help provide a student with a sense of fulfillment and motivation. We hope this list will help you decide on an activity or two for next week and maybe even save time by skipping the homework altogether!
Before You Go
In case you’re looking for some additional resources and valuable information, check out these sources!
