1. Make a list of your child's interests.
Sit down with your child to discuss their current interests and make a list. This gives you something to relate to when looking for hobbies to explore more deeply.
2. Introduce new things to your child on a regular basis.
Just trying new things is the best way for your child to gain life experience and discover new interests. Take trips to the field, display books on various and obscure topics, and try lots of fun activities at home. Take her to a play at a local children's theater. Maybe you can even take a course there? Make a habit of checking for new activities about once a week. It's a great way to spend some time and find new interests.
3. Test hobbies before committing.
Even if you find a hobby that seems perfect, start slowly. There is no guarantee that it will suit your child. Before you make a big commitment, let her try for a couple of weeks. School clubs or other school activities are great places to try new hobbies.
4. Give your child the freedom to explore.
That means giving your child enough space for the hobby and giving them time every week. Finding a hobby takes time!
5. Help your child learn and progress.
Depending on the hobby, your child may not be able to pursue it without your guidance. If they're not sure what to do next, work together to brainstorm ideas. If your child already knows what to do next, offer your support.
6. Know when to let your child move on.
Some hobbies last into adulthood, while others don't last long - even if your child enjoys them. Younger children often outgrow their interests and move on to something else. When your child is ready to stop, don't push them to continue. Just be ready to help them find something new.
7. Follow their lead.
While your first instinct may be to introduce your child to something you enjoy doing, it may not be something they love. Remember that your child is their own person. If they tell you that what you're doing is boring or makes them unhappy, take the opportunity to ask them questions and find out what they want to try next. It could be the first step towards a lifelong passion. Or even a fruitful career.
8. Explore the electives your online school offers.
There are also opportunities for your child to discover their interests during the school day. Encourage your student to look at any electives and extracurricular activities that grab their attention.
9. Take our ultimate career and study quiz.
When your child is older, take our career and college quiz today. Your hobbies and interests can help your child choose specific high school electives and figure out what major they should study - or what they should do in the future of work.
How to Find a Hobby in Online School
Finding a hobby for your child may take a bit of work, but it isn't that difficult either.
Once you help your child see their strengths, it is time to start exploring the different clubs and activities in their virtual school. In addition to the core classes “reading, writing and arithmetic”, an online school like the Connections Academy will offer a wide range of electives. Clubs are easy to join and help students socialize. Connections Academy clubs include:
Art association
Arts and Crafts Club
Chess club
Games and technology club
Science detectives
What is available for your child may vary depending on the school. But no matter which Connections Academy school your student is enrolled in, there are plenty of opportunities for them to connect with other students and find new hobbies. Register for one of our information events today to find out what's possible for your child and whether the flexibility of online school is right for your family.
9 steps to finding a hobby