The Overscheduled Child | Print |  E-mail
Although sports and activities are generally good for children, what happens when a child’s schedule is too busy? Children need a certain amount of “down” time for good health – especially before bedtime so that they can get enough sleep. Encouraging free, unstructured time also promotes creativity, brain development and decision-making.

Here are some general tips:

  • Assess how you spend your time each week: tv/screen time, driving to activities, etc.
  • Try to reduce activity level gradually; limit the number of events you go to
  • Practice saying ‘no’
  • Turn off the TV for one night a week
  • Allow your kids time for free, unstructured play
  • Wean your children off TV and computer games, which excite the brain, before bedtime. Instead encourage quiet activities like reading with them, which facilitates sleep.

Here are some book recommendations:

  • The Hurried Child – by David Elkind
  • Driven to Distraction — by Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey
Archive of Parenting Tips
Last Updated ( Monday, 09 July 2007 )
 
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