Tips for Busy Families

The key is to schedule things in moderation and choose activities with a child's age, temperament, interests, and abilities in mind. Don't bind their mind according to your interest, be free with them and work on their interest and abilities.

Depending on a kid's age and interests, it's possible to set reasonable limits on extracurricular activities and make them more enjoyable for all.

Here are some simple suggestions and tips:

* Agree on ground rules ahead of time: For instance, plan on kids playing one sport per season or limit activities during the school week.
* Know how much time is required: take out particular time for them, at least 1 hour a day will try to make a lot of difference and positive attitude in your child.
* Keep a calendar to stay organized: Display it on the refrigerator or other prominent spot so that you may remember.
* Try to carpool with other parents to make life easier.
* Try to balance activities for all of your kids — and yourself
* Create family time: If you're eating pizza on the run every night, plan a few dinners when everyone can be home at the same time — even if it means eating a little later. Schedule family fun time, too, whether it's playing a board game or going on bike ride or hike.
* Set priorities: School should come first. If kids have a hard time keeping up academically, they may need to drop an activity.
* Know when to say no
* Remember the importance of downtime: Everyone needs a chance to relax, reflect on the day, or just do nothing.