The transition from elementary school to middle school can be difficult for many preteens. This transition can be even harder for students who are moving to a new school.  As a result, they may seem reluctant to get involved in school sports, clubs and any other extracurricular activities. Fortunately, there are a few tips you can use in order to get your child more involved in school activities.

Do Not Force Them to Participate

The easiest way to get anyone to relinquish an interest in an activity or subject is by forcing it on them. This is also true with kids. At this age kids are on their way to becoming teenagers, therefore, they are looking to be more in control of their life. Resist forcing them to try a sport or an activity. Just start by encouraging them or suggesting it and let them do the rest. Too much pushing will make them feel backed into a corner and they may end up developing negative feelings towards the activity.

Encourage Them to Step outside Their Comfort Zone

Your comfort zone can eventually turn into an anchor and become your biggest weakness. As a preteen, children are looking to establish what they are passionate about or at they very least what they like to do in their spare time. As a result, it is best to encourage your child to try out different activities. This often means they will have to try new things that they are unfamiliar with. Your child may be introduced to new activities that they end up falling in love with by simply stepping out of their comfort zone. At this age, it is up to the parents to encourage them to do so.

Do Not Insert Yourself into Their Activities

Finding an extracurricular activity that your child likes can be a challenge for them. Once they find a place they feel like they belong it is important to give them this safe haven. If they are involved in sports, it is good to show up to the games, but avoid signing up for a volunteer position on the team or in the club. Preteens love having their own space where they can just let loose and unwind.

Participating in extracurricular activities can make the transition to middle school a little easier on your preteen. Therefore, use these tips to ensure that they get involved in activities and clubs during this new stage in their life. For assistance, talk to a professional like Associated Psychologists & Counselors.