Role of Co-curricular Activities and their Role in Hidden Curriculum

It is undeniable truth that academic education is absolutely essential to bring about the growth, development and enlightenment of students. However we should never forget the proverb "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy". On a metaphorical level, the word "play" is not only confined to the domain of sports and games but is applicable to every co-curricular activity. The existence of Co-curricular activities in schools is extremely crucial to ensure the all round growth and development of the students. 

Every co-curricular activity is beneficial to the students in some way or another. Playing outdoor games like cricket and football not only develop athletic ablities within the students and make them physically fit but also result in the development of various qualities within the students such as discipline, alertness, coordination skills, leadership skills and the ability to control emotions, and thus, they play a huge role in the hidden curriculum. On the other hand, if students play chess on a regular basis, it would enhance their critical thinking skills as well as their problem solving ability. Co-curricular activities such as painting, singing, drama etc. bring out the latent creative or artistic talent that exists in many students and gives them the opportunity to utilise that talent. 

Thus, a student's growth and development  can never be complete if he or she does not participate in co-curricular activities along with studying academic subjects. Co-curricular activities teach the students various values that are a part of the hidden curriculum and also enriches them as individuals. Thus they are as important and beneficial for the students as the studying of various academic subjects.