This newfound source of information – flyers, announcements
and direct marketing to my kids created another source for parent / child
discord – how many and which ones are right for each child.
Marketing was clever – I would linger over programs
identifying themselves as enrichment classes, like fine arts, community
involvement and science for a sustainable planet; while the boys begged for
Lego Adventure programs, dodge ball and electric guitar lessons.
A practical approach to these activities is moderation. Kids need time to do their homework,
socialize with friends informally, and spend time with family or just
relax. Your time is important too. I remember being held hostage for an hour and
a half every Monday while my boys participated in a Jurassic Park Sculpting
program in Evanston.
I encourage you to sit with your child and prioritize wants
and needs. Be a good observer – is
homework getting done in a reasonable amount of time; are you making time for
just “hanging out” with family, friends or independently? An important life skill to promote in our
children is finding something meaningful/productive to do on their own.
As a postscript; while discussing which programs we should
sign up for, I learned that LEGO has Certified Professionals who have turned
their passion for playing with LEGOs into a profession; and there’s not much to
learn from dodgeball, but some kids just think it’s fun; and that’s a good
enough reason to play.
Jo Anne Loper,
Tuesday’s Child
Director of Parent
Education
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