How much is too much?

 How much is too much?

 How much is too much

Should your child go for the football practice 5 days a week?  Are 3 days

enough? It is common for parents to be a little confused when it comes to 

deciding how much is too much with reference to after school activities. 

They argue that since most of the activities are fun (as different from 

studies), children will simply lap up these classes. But, too much of fun 

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. 

One or two classes per week are enough at the beginning. Once the child 

settles down, look for more challenging activities like a music program.

Grade 1:

One or two activities per week, play dates and playground visits are 

recommended. Avoid competitive sports activities. 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 voice opinions on what activities he or she 

wants. Sports, skating, swimming or computers - steer him towards things 

he likes. Many children begin lessons on a musical instrument around this 

age. But, allow your child some 'alone time' during which he can unwind 

and just do whatever he wishes.

Grade 3:

Socialization begins to take center stage. Team sports are a good choice. 

Developing motor skills, painting, drawing etc are good too. Let the child 

explore areas of interests. But 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 communit

y service. 

Middle school:

 How much is too much.Steer him away from TV. Get him 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 etc. As a thumb rule, 16-20 hours a week of extra activity should be 

more than enough. But look 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 himself.

Read also