Expanding Upon Online School on a Budget

Students who choose to enroll in an online home school course are signing on to an alternative form of education with many benefits. One of the best things about independent learning is the ability to work and learn at the pace most suited to the student. This means a person may choose to finish their school work quickly, or they may opt to dwell on a certain project or question. No matter how they choose to go about learning, they are certain to have more free time on their hands than they ever would in a traditional school setting. Because a well-rounded education would be difficult to obtain on the computer alone, it is important that children expand upon their online schooling by becoming involved in projects, activities, and their community.

 
Students who choose to enroll in an online home school course are signing on to an alternative form of education with many benefits. One of the best things about independent learning is the ability to work and learn at the pace most suited to the student. This means a person may choose to finish their school work quickly, or they may opt to dwell on a certain project or question. No matter how they choose to go about learning, they are certain to have more free time on their hands than they ever would in a traditional school setting. Because a well-rounded education would be difficult to obtain on the computer alone, it is important that children expand upon their online schooling by becoming involved in projects, activities, and their community.

Dance lessons every night and intensive gymnastics lessons are amazing things to give a child to round out their education if a parent is able. Unfortunately, most families can not afford the time or financial commitment that comes along with becoming a pre professional ballerina or future Olympic gymnast. That is okay though, because there are many alternate ways for children of all ages to become involved in the community, and various activities they can participate in without breaking the bank. The best part? Many of these alternatives, and the efforts involved in obtaining these opportunities, are likely to teach young people good team work, instill good work ethic, and help them to see the true value of time, money, and the world around them.

Community Theaters

The place for a young performer is on a stage. Community theaters provide an opportunity for anyone to audition to be a part of the fun. Encouraging students to rehearse their audition piece well before the audition will give them a better shot. Obtaining a copy of the script and becoming familiar with it before the audition can also be helpful. Shows with large casts and ensemble parts are more likely to have room for a new comer. If, in the end, a child does not make it into the show, they should be encouraged to try again and continue practicing until they make it. This is an excellent lesson in perseverance. Teenagers who don't make the cut, or those who prefer to stay behind the scenes, can volunteer to work backstage or as ushers. Working and playing at a theater, especially in shows involving people of all ages, is certain to teach many life lessons to any student.

Volunteer Work

Organizations of all kinds are happy to have a helping hand. Students with a passion should try to find volunteer opportunities in the field they most enjoy. Many zoos and museums allow teenagers to volunteer, as do plenty of small, local businesses. If there is a particular thing a young person would like to learn, it is often a good idea to check with local businesses in that field to see if an internship opportunity is available or if volunteer work could be exchanged for lessons. Volunteer work is a great way to teach children the value of hard work while allowing them to further pursue their interests.

Library Activities

Most libraries have lessons, activities, and clubs available to the public at no cost. This gives people of all ages the opportunity to learn and explore new things in a class setting without the commitment of enrolling in a long-term class. Book clubs are nearly always an option at local libraries, and are often the setting for deep and intelligent discussions. All people should take advantage of the amazing activities offered by their local library.

Part-Time Jobs

All teenagers enjoy having a bit of spending money. Unfortunately, most count on dear old mom and dad to fork over cash when they need it. While children are happy with this arrangement in the short-term, in the long-term it is not doing them any favors. By working a part-time job and earning their own money, kids learn the value of the dollar and improve upon their budgeting skills. The biggest problem teens run into when looking for a part-time job is the fact that most businesses will not hire anyone under the age of 16. However, with a little creativity this issue is easily overcome. The best option for those under 16 or those who don't wish to work a typical job is to use their skills to their advantage and either start their own business or find a local business that will hire them for those skills. Some examples are: the young photographer with a decent camera offering photo sessions, the 13-year-old advanced dancer offering beginning ballet lessons to local preschoolers, or the 14-year-old boy who loves dogs starting a dog walking business. Students should try thinking outside the box to come up with the perfect gig for themselves.

These are just some of the many ways students can become involved in the world around them and learn life's hardest and most important lessons without spending a fortune. By being creative and being unafraid to try new things, children will be able to connect with the world in their own, unique way, and plenty of doors to new opportunities will open along the way.