Should Your Middle Schooler Join Clubs In Middle School? Benefits And How To Choose

Middle school students are trying to figure out who they are and where they belong. They lack the confidence and independence of a high schooler. Joining clubs in middle school can be valuable or just another activity to worry about in an already busy schedule. Let’s consider the options before your student says “yes!”  

Why Clubs in Middle School Can Matter 

Clubs are designed to give students an opportunity to explore their interests without grades being attached. There is minimal pressure attached to joining a club. Higher student engagement and a strong sense of belonging in middle school is attributed to students being involved in extracurriculars. Having students connected is impactful.  

Clubs can help students:  

• build friendships
• try new interests
• develop confidence
• learn time management 

When Clubs Are Not the Right Move 

As students look to the future, they sometimes get ahead of themselves thinking they need to pile on clubs and extracurriculars for high school and college. This is not the case, and this mindset can be hard for some students. If you have found your middle schooler is already overwhelmed with their schoolwork, resistant to doing work or activities, or just joining a club because they think it will “look good” in the future, it’s worth stopping to have a conversation with your student. The last thing you want to do is create a stressed-out student which will ultimately affect their academic performance and possibly cause burnout at an early grade level. 

How to Choose the Right Club 

As you discuss options with your child, remember it’s not about finding the “best” club, but rather a club that fits what your child is looking for right now with their interests. Ask yourself the following questions: 

• Does this match what they are curious about and not just what they are good at?
• Do they have time in their schedules for this activity and the commitment it has? 

Check out your school’s list of clubs. If the offerings are limited, you may consider asking the school if you can start your own club. Here are some club ideas for middle school students:  

• STEM or robotics club
• Art club
• Honor Society or Young Scholars
• Drama or theater 
• Student government
• Debate club
• Service or volunteering
• Book club
• Coding or gaming club
• Gardening or environmental club 

With these club ideas for middle schoolers, remember to try out several and explore to find your passion and interest. As your child discovers these, encourage your child to apply for scholarships that relate to these clubs, organizations or activities and interests.  

The point of joining a club or extracurricular is an opportunity for students to build awareness of their interests, strengths, and even things they dislike. It is not to build their resume. It’s also a healthy way to grow emotionally and not just focus on performance and achievement.