We all know the types of parents who overextend their children and themselves. These are the good parents who will do everything they can to make their children the best they can be. Kids have a lot of energy, and they need to keep busy during their after-school hours. We have a responsibility as parents to give them down time as well.

When do they become burned out? Every child is different and each has his own tolerance level for activities and stress. It’s important for him to have a good balance of work and play at all stages during his childhood, well into adolescence.

Children want to please their parents. They will most often do things for them even if their hearts aren’t in it. Yet if burnout goes unnoticed, parents' issues may include rebellious and resentful children—and no one will understand why their kid's manners have taken a turn for the worse.

How much is too much when it comes to after school activity? Ask yourself these questions and evaluate your children’s personal situations:

  • Are they getting enough sleep?
  • Are they getting enough exercise for personal health and wellness?
  • Are they doing their best work at school?
  • Do they struggle to get student homework done on time?
  • Do they spend quality time with friends?
  • Do they spend quality time with family?
  • Do they miss family functions because of activities?
  • Do they willingly get ready to go?
  • Are they asking to do these activities?

Too much of anything cannot be good. You be the judge and decide how much is too much. If you need to cut down on your children’s activities, let them choose which ones to cut. That way they are really doing the ones they love.

A well-rounded schedule including resting, nurturing, culturing and athletic activities is the perfect recipe for whole growth in children. Next time you are scheduling activities, don’t forget to pencil in some down time for yourself as well as for your child. Moderation is the key to success, happiness, health and balance!


 

Susan Walter is a freelance writer in Macomb, Michigan and stay-at-home mother of two young children.