Balancing School and Activities for Your Kids and Your Sanity

Once school starts in the fall, it’s inevitable that your calendar is going to fill up with parent-teacher conferences, recitals, sports practices, plays, club meetings and other extracurricular activities. Sometimes it can be quite a challenge to find the time for these things. Other times, the sheer cost of your kids’ recreational activities can leave your wallet in rough shape. 

It’s important to set realistic expectations for what you and your children can handle. You shouldn’t be taking on the job of a full-time unpaid chauffeur in addition to your other duties. And if your kids’ undertakings are interfering with homework, sleep or real meals, then something will have to give.

If there are certain after-school activities that you and your child agree upon, but you can’t provide transportation, you can always ask other parents involved if they can give your child a ride sometimes, as well as consult with family members who might be willing. If money is a barrier, check with the program’s leader to see if scholarships are available.

If there are just too many obstacles, don’t fret. There are still things kids can do after school that they can do when they have the time, and most don’t require much money. If you can find things that you can do as a family, or perhaps one on one with your child, so much the better. 

Supporting your kids can take many forms, but once it starts affecting the family, you may need to make some adjustments. Finding that perfect balance can be tricky but it’s well-worth the effort. Your blood pressure will thank you.