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Benefits Of Playing A Musical Instrument

6. January 2016 Administrator Kids Activities (0)
In today’s times, when children have various options in the name of recreation, it is essential that we channelize their interests and curiosity in the right direction. Music is a de-stressing skill which will not only help your child at the development stage but also aid him lifelong.

Here are some benefits of learning to play a musical instrument:

  • Builds discipline: Learning any musical instrument requires practice. Regular and dedicated practice is possible in a strict routine and kids thus, invariably learn to be more disciplined. They will also learn to value time and be patient as they will be given lessons which they need to practice at home. Perfecting an instrument is years of perseverance, which is a good lesson for growing children.
  • Cultivates good social behavior: If kids are learning in a group, they need to keep pace with their peers- slow down or build up their speed on the instrument as per the group’s pace. They also interact, share notes and learn from each other, hence picking up essential social skills.
  • Behavioral benefits: A child who is working on acquiring a skill will be smarter and more confident than his peers. The sense of achievement and constant practice will help the child in accepting criticism positively and becoming a better person.
  • Boosts self esteem: While they are learning an instrument, kids get both positive and negative feedback. It helps them to polish their art and when they overcome a difficult phase, they get immense boost to their self esteem. A constant urge to keep improving and then getting praised for it is good for any child’s confidence levels.
  • Opens up their mind to different cultures: Music is also a good way to expose children to world music. By knowing about various instruments that are specific to various cultures (Bongo in Cuba or Tabla from India), kids can learn about countries and people they may not have heard before.
  • Helps academically: Music is all about patterns, rhythms, beats and scales. As they learn more, they need to have a sharp memory to come out with right tunes or lyrics. Laws of physics are applied too in string instruments like violin or guitar as children learn to pluck the strings. Hence, broadly academics and music are somewhat connected.
  • Builds physical abilities: Coordination and motor skills are definitely being put to use while playing any instrument. Instruments like percussion or drums are meant for high energy kids as they require using both hands and feet. Coordination skills and mind-body synchronization are essential for any instrument hence kids become more physically active.
One way of developing the interest of your child in music instrument is to expose to them to one or two first and then see where their preference lies. Make them talk to the instructor so they feel comfortable and get to know of the benefits.

We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas organize music camps for kids of all age-groups. The camp includes various activities like learning musical instruments, writing lyrics and writing music under the supervision of professional artists and poets. For more information, call us at (254) 699-5808.

Ideas To Keep Kids Active This Winter

21. December 2015 Administrator Kids Activities (0)
As the winter months set in, it becomes more important for the kids to stay physically active. Colder temperatures and shorter days compel them to stay indoors, making it difficult to play sports, run around and indulge in recreational outdoor activities. Parents must ensure that the kids get sufficient exercise and physical activity required during their growing years. It will not only improve their overall health, but also help them sleep better, develop learning skills, boost energy levels and enhance concentration.

Given below are some fun activities that can help your kids keep their minds active and engaged during winters:

  • Board Games: There can be no better way than board games to keep your kids’ mind active during the winter months. Look for the ones that are a bit challenging for their intellectual level and require them to stimulate their brain power in order to win.
  • Video Games: Though parents must limit the amount of screen time, playing video games occasionally can be actually beneficial for the kids. There are many games like tennis, basketball, bowling etc. which rely on exergaming, i.e. that players have to make body movements to control their virtual racket and ball. Hence, your kids can easily get the physical activity they need without having to go outdoors.
  • Indoor Sports: If your kid is really into sports, you can look for some indoor activities such as gymnastics, indoor soccer, bowling, martial arts etc. Swimming lessons are also a good indoor activity as well as cardiovascular workout for kids.
  • Dance Party: Throwing a living room dance party can be a good physical activity for the kids. Let your child select the music of his choice and come up with innovative dance steps to encourage participation.
  • Join A Kids Club: Enrolling your child in a local kids club can also be a great means of recreation during winters. Look for a club that offers various academic and co-curricular activities. These may include tutoring help, arts, computer classes, sports leagues etc. Let your kid join the programs of his interest so his afterschool hours can be utilized in a productive manner.
We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas, offer a wide range of kids activities in Killeen, TX. Our programs are aimed at overall physical and intellectual development of kids aged 6 to 18 years. For more information, feel free to call us at (254) 699 – 5808 or visit the club at 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541.

Creative Activities For Kids In Texas

7. December 2015 Administrator Kids Activities (0)
Kids are imaginative thinkers and creative activities play a vital role in their overall development. Parents and teachers must encourage children to participate in activities involving imaginative thinking. There are many activities that can enhance their creative abilities and give them a fun way to learn constructively about the world around them.

Following are some creative activity ideas for kids:

  • Art and Craft: Let the kids explore colors, designs and create a world of their own. For instance, you can show them how to make greeting cards for their family or friends. This will help them gain confidence and express their feelings. Activities like origami, Ikebana and collage making are also fun ways to keep the kids creatively engaged.
  • Dance and Music: Dance is one activity that is enjoyed by children of all age groups. Singing or playing musical instruments also excite the kids and make them more creative. Solo or group activities around music always encourage participation from children as music instantly attracts attention.
  • Little Chefs: Let the kids dirty their hands and clothes while preparing a rainbow sandwich. Children are often very intrigued by cooking and can showcase a lot of creativity in plating or getting different ingredients together to make new recipes that they love.
  • Photography: Some children have the passion for photography right from the beginning. You can encourage this interest by making them familiar with a durable camera. Also you can provide some tips regarding lighting, composition etc. as it will help in enhancing their skills.
  • Reading and Writing: Introduce them to books suiting their age and intellectual level. Make the process of storytelling interesting by incorporating theater and shows in the classroom. You can also encourage the kids to express themselves freely by writing their ideas down on certain topics and later on reading them aloud for the entire class.
  • Games: Fun games like treasure hunt, musical chairs or hopscotch let the kids be at ease while learning essential life skills. Playing mind and word games also activate their creative side and help them learn new things.
The earlier the kids are introduced to fun creative activities, the better it is as their impressionable minds have great grasping powers. Parents must encourage kids to explore more and more so they grow up to be independent and intelligent.

We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas, offer a wide range of creative activities for kids aged 6 to 18 years. For more information, visit our office at 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541 or call at (254) 699-5808.

Tips To Choose An After-School Program

14. November 2015 Administrator Blog, Kids Activities (0)
Parents often look for interesting after-school programs or activities to keep their kids engaged and make them learn new things. The kids can play sports, join drama classes and learn various creative skills, which will be useful for them in their later life. These programs can keep the child occupied in learning activities that are beneficial for their social well-being as well as help them explore their hidden talents.

Here are some tips to help you choose the right after-school program for your child:

  • Know the interest of your child: Before you start looking for an after-school program, make sure you understand your child’s likes and dislikes. You can even consult his teachers for any suggestions according to the child’s performance in sports and academics.
  • Check what kids’ club has to offer: You can get the list of extracurricular activities from the club to ensure that they offer the particular program that interests your child. Whether your child wants to join a sports activity or looking forward to learn some dramatic skills, make sure the club has the intended programs.
  • Check the curriculum and quality of program: The program that you choose must offer a variety of enriching activities, both creative and athletic. Besides art and craft, the program can include performing arts, music, drama and other activities. Special events should also be organized from time to time to encourage children’s participation. You should make sure the program helps in developing interpersonal and social skills of the child as well as foster his self-worth.
  • Staff and safety: It is your prime responsibility to ensure that the club that you select ensures safety of the children. Make sure they have the necessary equipment for protection of the kids during sports and other activities. Also, the facility should be clean and well ventilated. The instructors at the club should be qualified and trained to cater to the needs of the child.
  • Assistance in homework: Besides recreational activities, you can also opt for tutoring programs to help your child with homework. It will help in keeping a balance between academics and extra-curricular activities. The child will also be able to learn time management skills which can be very beneficial throughout his life.
We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas, organize an array of after-school programs for kids aged between 6 and 18 years. For more information about activities offered, you can call at (254) 699 - 5808 or visit the club at 304 W Ave B Killeen, TX 76541

Teaching Public Speaking Skills To Kids

5. November 2015 Administrator Blog, Kids Activities (0)
Public speaking skills are an important aspect of any profession nowadays as one may need to give presentations or deliver briefings. Thus, it is important to be able to speak confidently in public and express their views efficiently. The art of public speaking must be inculcated in kids from a very young age. Starting early will help your child develop confidence and excellent communication strategies that will help him in his life later on.

Following are some tips for parents and teachers on how they can teach public speaking skills to their kids.

  • Make it a fun activity: Presenting public speaking as an important or fearful task can discourage children. Instead, try to develop it as a fun activity for them. This will not only help them develop the requisite skills but also keep the fear of public speaking at bay. For instance, you can start out by giving them an interesting topic to speak on or organize enjoyable activities like an extempore etc.
  • Practice: Developing good speaking skills requires a lot of practice and consistent efforts. You must persuade your children to listen to some of the great speeches of all times. The speeches should be chosen according to the age of the child and how much he can comprehend. Sit with him and note down the points that you both find important. Afterwards, incorporate the positive aspects whenever you prepare him for public speaking.
  • Encourage your child to participate in educational fairs: Educational fairs offer a great opportunity for children to become better public speakers. They have to present their projects and explain it in detail to a formal audience comprising of adults. This will encourage your child to speak confidently in front of a large audience.
  • Enroll your child in dramatic arts: There are a number of kids clubs that offer drama classes for children. Enrolling your child in one of such classes can greatly help him in learning attributes like managing stage fright, memorizing particular things and voice projection etc. Teachers in drama classes must also encourage kids so as to develop their confidence.
  • Limit Audiences: When the kids are ready to give their first speech, let them speak in front of a small group of people initially. You can increase the audience over a period of time as they start to build up more confidence. Also, you should refrain from pointing out the flaws in front of everyone.
We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas, can help to inculcate public speaking skills in your child. We offer various character and leadership activities for kids up to the age of 18 years. For more information, you can call us at (254) 699 – 5808 or visit the club at 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541.

Youth Football Safety Tips

20. October 2015 Administrator Kids Activities, Youth Football (0)
Football is an exciting game that appeals the youth of different age groups. However, as a result of the aggressive physical contact that occurs during the sport, injuries are quite common. It is important give utmost attention to the players’ safety in order to avoid any mishaps.

Here are some safety tips that must be followed while playing football:  

  • Use Safety Gears: It is crucial that the players wear proper safety gear to prevent injuries. Certain safety equipment include:  
  1. Children should always wear helmet while playing football. It is essential that the helmet meets the safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Moreover, it should fit properly on the head.
  2. To keep the mouth, tongue and teeth safe, it is recommended that players should use mouth guards.
  3. To shield the knees and elbows, make sure the players wear the knee and elbow pads.
  4. To avoid tripping and falling, the players should wear the right footwear. Replace the worn out shoes to avoid sprains or strains.
  • Warm Up Before Playing: The kids should never rush into the game without warming up properly. Warm up exercises prepare muscles for the physical activity and avoid any injuries. The players should start with jogging, brisk walking and other cardiovascular activities. Even stretching helps in warming up the body by increasing blood flow to the muscles.
  • Proper Training: The youth should undergo proper training from a certified coach or football club. They must thoroughly understand the rules and strategies of the game. They should practice tackling with the correct form to avoid injuries to the head or neck.
  • Take Plenty Of Fluids: It is important to stay hydrated while playing football. It helps to control body temperature, release stiffness from joints and carry nutrients to sustain energy levels. The children should drink plenty of water and keep extra water bottles with them.
  • Avoid Playing When Injured: If a player is injured, he should not return to the game till complete recovery. He should follow proper treatment and undergo rehabilitation process to regain the lost strength. If one feels uncomfortable of fatigued while playing, he should immediate get off the field to prevent the condition from worsening.
For more tips on staying safe while playing football, feel free to contact Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas at (254) 699 - 5808.

Graphic Design Classes For Kids In Texas

13. October 2015 Administrator Kids Activities, Tutoring (0)
Kids nowadays are quite tech savvy and have a hand-on knowledge of computers right from an early age. Graphic design classes can help to augment this skill and provide a viable career option for them. Getting your child involved in such a class can be quite helpful in developing his technical and creative skills. These classes offer an array of programs such as website designing, computer programming, digital art and much more.

Here are some of the benefits of graphic design for children:

  • Enhanced confidence and self-esteem: Graphic designing gives your child exposure to computer programming which he may be able to do in school until he reaches a higher grade. By joining such a program, he also gets to interact with other kids with the same interests, thus, expanding his knowledge base. Also, acquiring a certain skill provides an edge and can definitely boost the child’s self-confidence.
  • Development of design skills: It gives your child the opportunity to develop his creative skills. Different computer activities are designed specifically to enhance their innate resourcefulness and increase technical knowledge about the field. He can even take up graphic designing as a career opportunity in the future.
  • Improvement in problem-solving skills: In a graphic design class, kids are provided with hands-on experience of interesting projects. They are allowed to accomplish the tasks on their own and according to their own ability. This adds to their problem-solving skills and makes them better at finding solutions.
  • Development of computer programming skills: The classes also teach computer programming skills to the children. This gives them a chance to gain technical knowledge about the working of computers. This can prove to be beneficial in the long run as your child can carve a career out of it.
  • Better math skills: Computer programming requires a good level of mathematical skills. Therefore, when your child gets involved in a tech camp, he not only gets a chance to enhance his creativity but improve his mathematical skills as well.
  • Advanced social skills: The technology classes organized by a kids club are a perfect platform for your child to exchange ideas with peers and improve his social skills. This is a very important aspect of any child’s personality that can be easily developed in such classes.
We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas, offer graphic design classes for the kids in Texas. For more information, you can call us at (254) 699 – 5808 or visit the kids club at 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541.

Art Activities For Kids

6. October 2015 Administrator Kids Activities (0)
Parents often look for extra-curricular activities that can keep their kids engaged and, therefore, enroll them in clubs that offer various art activities. Drawing, painting, sculpting, printmaking etc. can help kids inculcate skills that are useful throughout their life and help them grow into a better individual. It is crucial for parents to encourage their children to join such activities because to boost their intelligence levels, mood as well as self confidence.

Here are some of the art activities that your kids can join:

  • Drawing: Drawing is a way to express oneself and is greatly helpful for kids. It stimulates imagination, helps kids exercise problem-solving strategies and improve their motor skills, such as holding colors, grasping and hand-eye coordination. Drawing teaches them to enhance their perceptual skills and also increases self-confidence. They also become able to make comparisons between different sizes, shapes, textures etc.
  • Painting: Painting allows the kids to display their creativity and at the same time, have fun. It fosters creativity and can keeps the kids engaged for hours, thus, increasing their concentration power. They start expressing themselves deeply and develop critical-thinking skills. Painting also boosts their self-esteem and artistic style.
  • Collage Making: Children love to make collages using different photographs or pictures of their favorite items, people etc. It infuses creativity in the kids, which later on helps them use the skill in different spheres of life. They also develop the basic geometry skills, such as measuring and sorting things according to their size or shape.
  • Printmaking: Printmaking is an enjoyable art activity that helps children learn the concept of transferring images from one surface to another. Kids use a variety of tools and identify objects that can make prints.
  • Sculpting: Making sculptures with clay can be therapeutic as it helps in relieving stress. Clay modeling can be a lot of fun for small kids as it flares up their creative side and helps them put their imagination to reality. Rolling, squeezing and molding the clay into different forms helps to develop fine motor skills. Sculpting can also be a great way to extend the attention span of the kids.
These art activities help children concentrate and express their feelings in a constructive way. They lead to emotional, mental and social development of the kids.

We, at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Texas, offer a wide range of art activities for kids in Killeen, TX. Our programs aim at helping kids to discover their hidden talent and master innate creative skills. For more information, you can call at (254) 699 – 5808 or visit the child care club at 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541.

Drama Education: Benefits for Kids

21. September 2015 Administrator Kids Activities (0)
Drama is a fun and creative activity that allows a child to explore his hidden talents. Enrolling in such co-curricular programs helps to broaden his abilities and boost his overall development. Also, the child becomes able to express himself in a better way. Here are some benefits that your child can reap through drama education:

  • Boost self-confidence: Dramatic presentation help in realizing the child’s hidden talent which, in turn, boosts self-confidence. Putting yourself in other’s shoes is not an easy task .When the kids accept this challenge, they recognize their worth.
  • Better public speaking skills: Performing in front of others removes the fear of public speaking in kids. Taking part in drama activities also hones language and communication skills. It allows the child to come out of his shell which leads to a better personal and social development.
  • Self-Discipline: Kids need to follow certain schedule to indulge in drama clubs. They will have to effectively manage their time for academics, sports as well other activities. This will develop the virtue of self-discipline which will be beneficial for their entire life.
  • Creativity: Drama develops a sense of creativity among kids. It encourages the child to be more imaginative which helps in improving problem solving skills and implementing them in everyday life.
  • Cooperation: Engaging the child in drama activities will imbibe the qualities of coordination and cooperation in him. Kids have to work in collaboration with others, which increases the spirit of teamwork.
  • Concentration: Concentration is a skill that is vital for people of all ages. As drama involves understanding the essence of a character, it plays a considerable role in improving concentration. Also, enacting a role on stage will require several rehearsals. This will help the child develop qualities such as patience and perseverance.
  • Social Awareness: A child may become socially aware of the legends, myths, poems, stories which are used in plays. He can learn about the social issues and conflicts of the past or present. He can understand the diversity in cultures across different parts of the world.
We, at Boys & Girls Clubs Of Central Texas, provide drama education to kids in Killeen, TX. For more information about the enrolment procedure, you can call at (254) 699 – 5808 or visit the club at 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541.

Kids Activities To Build Leadership Qualities

7. September 2015 Administrator Kids Activities (0)
Leadership qualities are essential life skills that should be built in children since a very young age. While some children can be natural leaders, you can also influence them to boost the skills that will positively affect their life. Here are certain activities that can help to build leadership qualities in children:

  • Encourage Team Activities: You should identify your child’s areas of interest and enroll them in classes that appeal to them. By participating in sports or joining the school music band, he will learn the importance of teamwork and leadership.
  • Promote Working: If children demonstrate interest to work in any capacity, you should encourage it. They might need supervision initially but once they get experience, they can be motivated to work on their own. Promoting self-dependence is essential in building leadership qualities in children.
  • Game Night: Ensure that the child spends time away from technology and books. You can organize a game night every week and let the child decide the game that he wants to play. This will encourage him to take decisions and be a good sport.
  • Kids Club: You can consider enrolling the child in a club that organizes various sports and extra-curricular activities that encourage teamwork, sharing, communication etc.
  • Let Them Decide: You should allow the child to make independent decisions regarding everyday tasks. The child should be taught the importance of weighing the options and making an informed decision.
  • Use Vision Boards: You can use them to set goals and ask the children to cut pictures and draw their plan. This will assist in making them more organized and lead them to their goals. Having a clear vision of the target is an essential leadership quality.
  • Include In Planning: You must include the child in planning any vacation or family get together. This will boost his confidence and communication skills. You can distribute tasks and allow the child to display his leadership skills.
  • Encourage Reading: This makes the child be aware, confidence and well learnt. It prepares the child for situations and enhances the ability to take charge of a situation.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Texas offers a wide range of activities that help to inculcate leadership qualities in children. For more information about the activities offered at the club, call at (254) 699 – 5808 or visit 304 W Ave B, Killeen, TX – 76541.