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The Benefits of Encouraging Children to Take Up Hobbies

By Dr. Dorland Martins, MD
Consultant at VitaNova Clinics
kid drawing

As a doctor and the owner of VitaNova Homeopathy Clinics, I strongly believe in the importance of nurturing children and providing them with the best possible opportunities for growth and development. Hobbies play a crucial role in this process and can have a significant impact on a child's well-being.

Hobbies are a great way to deal with and release stress. Participating in activities like sports, music, or art can help children relax, destress, and improve their overall mental health.

In addition to helping with stress, hobbies are also an excellent way for children to connect and socialize with like-minded individuals. This can help them improve their social skills and make new friends, which can be particularly beneficial for introverted children.

Moreover, hobbies are healthy activities for children. Participating in physical activities like sports can improve their physical health and fitness, while creative activities like art and music can stimulate their minds and improve their cognitive abilities.

Hobbies also make children feel special. When they engage in activities they enjoy, it gives them a sense of accomplishment and pride. This can boost their confidence and self-esteem, helping them to feel more positive about themselves and their abilities.

Furthermore, hobbies can help students to focus on their studies. By participating in activities they enjoy outside of the classroom, students can recharge their batteries and return to their studies with a clearer mind, better able to focus and retain information.

Finally, hobbies can be especially beneficial for children with ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) or those who are extremely restless. Activities like dancing or martial arts can help these children to utilise their extra energy in a more creative way, and can also help them to channel any aggressive tendencies in a healthy and productive manner.

I was recently privileged to attend an annual painting exhibition organized by Studio 07 Fine Art Academy, Vasco and was impressed by the talent of Master Siyansh Mahambre. This experience has further solidified my belief in the importance of exposing children to different hobbies at a young age. By doing so, children can discover their passions and develop a strong sense of creativity, which could lead to a fulfilling career in the future.

Dr Dorland Martins with Siyansh Mahambre
Dr Dorland Martins with Siyansh Mahambre at Fine Art Academy, Vasco

However, it's important to note that hobbies should not be a stressful and competitive affair for children. Some parents may feel pressure to enrol their child in multiple activities because their peers are doing the same, but it's crucial to focus on encouraging your child's interests. Sending them to small camps or classes can help them identify what they like and are interested in, and then they can go ahead and develop that as their hobby. The goal is to make it a fun and enjoyable experience for the child, not a chore.

In conclusion, I believe that encouraging children to take up hobbies is a must for parents. Not only will it improve their physical and mental well-being, but it can also shape your child’s future and lead them to a career they are passionate about. So why wait? Encourage your child to take up a new hobby today and watch them grow!