After School Activities How much is too much?

Should your child go for the football practice 6 days a week, or is 3 days
enough? Many parents are confused when it comes to deciding how much is too much in reference to after school activities.
 
Many argue that since most after school activities are fun (unlike the day time calles the children attend), children will simply lap up these classes. But, too much of of a good thing  can also make a child sick. Here is a simple guide that will help you decide how much is too much for your child.

Kindergarten:

Your child is just beginning to learn to interact and get used to
discipline. His or her after-school life should be simple and carefree.
No more than one or two classes per week are enough for children of this age. Once the child
settles down, look for more challenging activities like a music program.

Grade 1:

Still keep it down to one or two activities per week. Play dates and playground visits are
recommended. Avoid competitive sports activities such as football basketball etc.. The child is still too young to have to worry about winning and losing. After the rigors of a  full day at school, he or she needs a healthy outlet for pent up energy. Physical activities and noncompetitive sports are best for this age.

Grade 2:

Your child is old enough to begin to voice his or her opinion on what activities he or she
wants. Sports, skating, dancing, music, or computers. Be sure to steer them towards things
they like not what you wnt them to do. Many children begin lessons on a musical instrument around this age. Be sure to allow your child some ‘alone time’, so that he or she can unwind
and just do whatever they want.

Grade 3:

Socialization begins to take hold in their lives. Team sportsat this age are a good choice. Developing motor skills, painting, drawing etc are good a well. Let the child explore his or her areas of interests. Do not forget to leave aside enough time for the family and for fun activities.

Grade 4:

At this age, the child will tell you what he likes. He needs to get  involved in activities that will boost his confidence. This will also help him manage stress as this is the time when social pressure is beginning to
build. But, beware of the homework demon. Your child needs more time with his studies. Balancing his schoolwork with other activities is very important.

Grade 5:

The fifth grader is bubbling with energy and will want to do just  about everything. But she or he may conveniently push studies to the background. So, close supervision is needed. Keep one or two days free for family time and other activities. Now is a great time to get your child interested in community service.

Middle school:

Steer them away from TV. Get them engaged in activities that reinforce learning. Academic performance can be improved by encouraging your preteen to join clubs like the Girl/Boy Scouts program, language clubs, chess clubs, a rotoray club, 4h etc. As a thumb rule, 16-20 hours a week of extra activity should be more than enough. But keep an everwatchfuleye out for signs of burnout.

What you select for your child and how long he should work at it is basically decided by the child’s temperament. As a parent, you should closely observe your child and base your decisions on feedback from the child and from your childs temperment.

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