School can be draining on children. Long days of learning take a toll on the mind and body, and after school activities are designed to be "refreshers" if you will for your child. After school activities tend not to fall in line with academics that children are likely to learn during the school day, and can be viewed almost as the fun, interesting counterpoint to standardized education. Most schools encourage parents to enroll their children in at least one after school activity, as it helps the child end the school day in a positive manner.
The type of after school activity you enroll your boy in should depend upon his interests. While we all want our children to follow in our footsteps, it is important that this be his decision. Sports can be excellent after school activities as they help to release the built-up energy that your child has gained throughout the school day. The same can be said for musical after school activities. If sports and music aren't up your boy's ally, there are plenty of cerebral activities to take part in such as math club and the debate team (at higher education levels).
The point is, it really doesn't matter what the activity is as long as your child enjoys it.
