Beyond the Classroom: Quality time outside of school

As parents and teachers, we want the best for our children. We want them to learn, grow, and develop into curious, confident, and capable individuals. While schools play an essential role in children's education, children spend more time at home than they do in school.

So, why The Rocket House?

We believe that it's essential for children to spend quality time with inspirational role models who can help them continue to learn, stay curious, and develop all the necessary values and life skills needed to thrive later in life. Trained educators can indeed provide comprehensive and supportive learning experiences that promotes both academic achievement and social-emotional growth.

Research shows that children who spend quality time with mentors or teachers tend to have better academic outcomes, improved social and emotional skills, and higher self-esteem. According to a study by the National Mentoring Partnership, children who have mentors are 55% more likely to enrol in further education and 130% more likely to hold leadership positions.

Experienced and knowledgeable teachers can provide children with a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their interests, learn new skills, and develop their confidence and self-esteem. They can help children discover their own strengths, unlock their talents and encourage them to pursue their goals and dreams by providing them with individualised support in different areas.

It is also important for children to spend time developing their interests at home. This can provide a sense of balance and fulfilment beyond academics, which is crucial for their overall wellbeing. Whether is dance, art, sports, coding or creative writing, teachers can help parents by providing guidance and resources for specific subjects and suggesting activities that can be done at home. And by spending time with specialised teachers, children can learn from someone who is passionate and knowledgeable in that field which will also inspire them to pursue their passions further.

Teachers can also act as role models, providing children with positive examples of how to deal with different challenges and situations or fostering important character and life skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making.

What about just relaxing after school?

Well, indeed, research suggests that allowing children time to relax and get bored is important for their mental and emotional wellbeing, and their creativity! According to a study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies, "Time spent in unstructured activities such as playing, socialising, and relaxing is important for children's happiness and overall life satisfaction." Teachers are great at tuning into children’s needs! By finding a balance between structured learning and unstructured downtime, they will help promote a positive and healthy environment that supports both learning and overall wellbeing - you know, “quality time”!

• Sources:
  National Mentoring Partnership. (2016). The Mentoring Effect: Young People’s Perspectives on the Outcomes and Availability of Mentoring.

• Rhodes, J. E. (2002). Stand by me: The risks and rewards of mentoring today’s youth. Harvard University Press.