A hobby is anything that we do simply for the sake of enjoyment -- not for work, not for school, not for money.

Whether it’s art, sports or cooking, hobbies benefit physical development, critical thinking skills, motor skills, creativity, decision-making skills and confidence.

 

As your child gets older, you will begin to see her interests and personality emerge. Allow her to pursue a variety of interests, keeping in mind that she will not enjoy all of them equally.

Before investing in expensive groups or classes, start small. If she spends a lot of time with the play kitchen and enjoys watching you cook, invite her to help you make dinner.

If she likes watching sports on television, take some time to play catch outside together.

If you have signed your child up for a class but he realizes that he doesn’t like it, that’s okay.

It can be used as a good lesson in following through with our commitments: “I understand that you don’t like your swimming class anymore but we are going to finish the six classes for which we enrolled before you stop going.”

When he wants to try something new, challenge him to consider the commitment even if this means signing up for just one class at first.

Remember that hobbies can take up space, especially those involving art. If needed, set aside space in the home for your child to explore her interests, whether it’s an extra bedroom or a desk in the corner of the living room.