Middle School Activities Your Tween Can Join

Middle school can be scary for a preteen who doesn't know what to expect. And while the middle school years do present certain challenges, they are also an opportunity to have a little fun and try new things. Be sure your child is aware of all of the middle school activities that are offered at your child's school. These activities may be mentioned at school orientation or at a back to school night. Either way, giving one or two clubs or activities a try may be just the thing your middle schooler needs.

Middle School Activities: Clubs, Organizations and More

The Middle School Band: The school band is an opportunity for your child to be involved without having to commit too much time and money. If your child played in elementary school, consider sticking with the band through middle school. The band will likely play one to three concerts a year, and may also march in local parades, such as homecoming or community parades. If your child is interested in joining the band, but hasn't played an instrument before, make contact with the band instructor to see if there might be a spot for a beginner musician.

The Science Fair: Many middle schools hold an annual science fair for students. Science fairs can be a fun activity, and most of the time students have complete control over their projects, research and how they display or demonstrate their work. If your tween is into experiments, or has a natural curiosity about science, entering the science fair should be a consideration.

Intramural Sports: If your middle school doesn't have competitive sports teams, they may offer intramural sports to the students. An intramural sports program allows the children to participate in a sport, or try a sport, without the expectations that come with a competitive team. Students may play informal games against other students, or even against teachers and school staff.

The Yearbook Staff: There's no better place for a student who wants to be in the middle of all the activity at school. The school yearbook staff will consist of reporters, photographers and editors. Serving on the yearbook staff will give your child the opportunity to attend events, games, and concerts and write or photograph them for the book. Joining the yearbook staff gives students the chance to learn all about what happens at school and after school, and usually the commitment is minimal, making it a good choice for children who have other commitments throughout the year.

Student Council: Running for class president, secretary or some other position has numerous benefits for preteens, including how to run a campaign. Even if your student isn't interested in becoming a class officer, many schools ask for volunteers from the student body to serve on a variety of committees. Serving on a committee can help your child determine if he might want to run for an elected position in high school, and it gives your child the chance to participate in a number of school events, such as organizing the end of year dance.

The School Choir: Students who aren't interested in joining the school band might opt instead for the school choir. Usually, middle school choirs will perform once or twice during the school year - a performance around the holiday season, and another at the end of the year. Your child might need to purchase an outfit, but sometimes they are provided by the school. Choirs might also be asked to perform at community events, or at area hospitals or retirement communities.