Health Tip: Keep Kids on a Realistic Schedule

(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.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Nov. 21, 2007

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