School is Back in Session and a flurry of extracurricular activities are at your son’s fingertips. Which direction will he go? Where are HIS interests? What does he have time for? How much is too much?

There is a delicate balance between making sure your son is kept busy yet not overwhelmed with activities along with keeping his grades up to where they need to be.
Keep in mind that although you might have loved the piano when you were a little girl, three hours of practicing a day for your son might not be the highlight of his life.
If he is of slight build, forcing him to be the linebacker of his little league football team may not be a good idea either. Keep your son’s interests and capabilities in mind. Let him chose something he has an interest in yet can challenge him.

Here are some great ideas for your son’s spare time to build him creatively and physically.
*Boy Scouts of America - Cub Scouts for 1st grade through age 11. And Boy Scouts for boys 11 years of age to 18. More information can be found at www.scouting.org
*Boys and Girls Clubs - www.BGCA.org
*www.ymca.net
*www.karateworld.org
These are just a few examples that can teach, entertain and challenge your son.
Local Suggestions:
Church Youth Groups
Music Lessons
Art Lessons
Dance Lessons
Volunteering with Guide Dog Groups, or Pet Therapy Groups
Various school clubs and groups
Local athletic department for organized sports

A Few things to remember:
Some children need more “down time” than others.
Proper eating and sleeping is necessary to keep up with school work and activities.
Challenge your son but find an activity that won’t be frustrating.
Don’t set your son up for failure.
Don’t over schedule your son so that he has “burn out”.
Find an activity that will teach him self confidence, values, success, social skills and most have all ..have FUN!

When you sign your son up for his activities:
Always meet the leader of the group. Know who the responsible adult is.
Always be clear as to where the meeting will be held and who will be in charge.
Know when the meeting starts and exactly when it ends. Never be too early, and never be late.
Know the rules and regulations of the organization and make sure that your son knows them as well.
Make sure that the organization states that no adult will be left alone with a child and make sure your son knows that as well.
Know what the fees are up front.
Know what their emergency procedure is.
Know their contact information.
Know what this organization will need from you and make sure you can rework your schedule for these activities.
Be able to volunteer when you are needed.

This is a great time in your son’s life. Many of the things that he will learn from extracurricular activities will last him a lifetime and add to his total education. It will become a bonding experience and a source of great conversation with your son. It’s great to watch him grow and learn. And its especially wonderful when he has found the perfect activity. Knowing this, remember to schedule your time accordingly. No one will benefit from anything if the household is always rushed, dinner is always on the run, no one has time to talk and everyone is stressed.
Relax,enjoy and watch him grow!