(HealthDay News) - While after-school sports and other extracurricular activities are a great way to stay healthy, a schedule that's too packed can take its toll on your kids.
The Nemours Foundation says you should keep the following guidelines in mind when planning your child's extracurricular program:
- Set limits -- such as on the number of sports played per season, or on the number of days or evenings per week dedicated to these activities.
- Make sure your child knows how much time each activity will take. Be sure to include not just the activity itself, but any practice and time required at home.
- Create a calendar of activities, and make sure it includes ample down time -- as much as your child needs to be relaxed and happy.
- School must come first. If your child can't keep up with homework and other assignments, your child probably should cut back on extracurricular activities.
