Healthy hobbies are an essential part of a student’s well-rounded development, not only helping them manage the challenges of academic life but also enriching their personal, social and emotional growth.
Encouraging students to take up healthy hobbies is a great way to support their physical, mental and emotional well-being. Here are some strategies and ideas to inspire them:
> Lead by example
Teachers and school staff can model healthy hobbies such as reading, gardening, yoga or sports. Sharing personal experiences helps students see that these activities are fun and fulfilling.
> Integrate hobbies into school life
Create hobby clubs for activities like art, chess, dance, debate, coding or gardening. Include “Hobby Days” where students can showcase or try new activities. Offer elective periods for creative or physical pursuits.
> Expose students to a variety of activities
Host demo sessions or workshops with local experts like chefs and musicians for cooking and drumming. Rotate activities so students can discover what they enjoy most.
> Promote socialising
Encourage group activities. Students are more likely to join if their friends do too. Use teamwork-based hobbies like sports, drama or community service.
> Emphasise the benefits
Teach students how hobbies can help them reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus and time management, build confidence and social skills, and promote physical fitness and creativity.
> Encourage outdoor and active hobbies
Hiking, cycling or nature walks can help students disconnect from screens. Organise school outings focused on outdoor recreation.
> Recognise and celebrate participation
Reward involvement, not just competition. Create “Hobby Champion” boards or give certificates for consistency and creativity.
> Use technology wisely
Encourage digital hobbies with positive impact such as coding, digital art, online language learning. Balance screen-based hobbies with physical or hands-on ones.
LIONG KAM CHONG
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