Back-to-School Tips: How to Help Kids Manage Their Time

Aug 9, 2023, 11:32 AM

While extracurriculars offer invaluable experiences, the pressure to excel in multiple fields can become overwhelming. So, how do you help your child strike the right balance? Read on.

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We've all seen the iconic image: a child, dashing from soccer practice, with a violin case in one hand, a math textbook in the other, and perhaps even a drama club script peeking out from their backpack. The modern student, more than ever, juggles a myriad of activities. While extracurriculars offer invaluable experiences in teamwork, leadership, and personal growth, the pressure to excel in multiple fields can become overwhelming. So, how do you help your child strike the right balance? Read on.

Prioritize Activities

Begin with an honest discussion. Ask your child which activities truly matter to them. Sometimes, children pick up activities to meet expectations, either from peers or adults, rather than genuine interest. It might be worth considering limiting the number of activities a child engages in simultaneously. Depth often trumps breadth, and it’s better to be fully engaged in a few pursuits than thinly spread across many.

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Set Clear Goals

Each activity should have a clear purpose. Whether it's mastering a musical instrument, aiming for a black belt in karate, or achieving a particular role in the drama club, having a goal provides focus. With that focus, it's easier to allocate time effectively. It also makes it clear when the activity no longer serves its purpose, which might be a signal to move on.

Master the Art of Planning

A visual representation of their week can work wonders. Use a physical planner or digital apps like Google Calendar to block time for school, homework, practice sessions, and relaxation. Stick to the plan, but ensure it has some flexibility. Weekly family check-ins can be a good way to adjust and recalibrate schedules.

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Homework First

While it might be tempting to head straight to basketball practice after school, it's generally a good principle to prioritize homework. An unfinished assignment can be a significant stressor and might negatively impact a child's performance in their extracurricular activities. Establishing a "homework first" rule can create a structure that makes evenings more manageable.

Learn to Say 'No'

Over-commitment is a real challenge. Sometimes, the best decision is to decline an invitation to join another club or participate in another event. Teach your child the value of saying 'no' when they feel stretched too thin. It’s a crucial life skill that will serve them well beyond their school years.

Emphasize the Importance of Downtime

All work and no play can lead to burnout. Children need time to relax, be with family, or simply be by themselves. Ensure there are pockets of unscheduled time in their week. It might seem counterintuitive, but sometimes doing nothing is the best thing for a child's development and mental well-being.

Monitor Academic Performance

While extracurriculars are essential, academics shouldn't take a backseat. If you notice slipping grades or that your child is frequently staying up late to finish assignments, it might be time to reassess their extracurricular commitments.

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Encourage Efficient Study Habits

Sometimes, it's not about having too little time, but how we use it. Introduce your child to efficient study techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique or active recall. These methods can reduce study time and increase retention, freeing up more time for other activities.

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Reassess Regularly

Children change, interests evolve, and schedules shift. What worked one semester might not be applicable the next. Periodically sit down with your child to discuss their commitments, ensuring they remain aligned with their goals and well-being.

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*A $4.95 monthly fee applies when you enroll for Checking PLUS. You may cancel at any time by contacting the credit union by phone at 520-794-8341, through secure email form, or in person at any Hughes branch location.