just let them play??

I never wanted to be a parent dragging my kids to all sorts of activities.
Research is showing that being too scheduled can affect a child's locus of control. An internal locus of control means you feel in control of your circumstances. Being able to play improves your sense of self-determination which helps you feel more in control.

read: https://getpocket.com/explore/item/the-play-deficit

My kids are like sponges and at this age their ability to learn new skills is incredible. I don't think I'm trying to keep up with the joneses, I feel like Im doing them a disservice by not exposing them to as many activities as possible. Another side effect is how this unscheduled time would be otherwise spent (Yes it's patronizing but I'm their parent). They're also passionate about these activities. I only have a few years of this until puberty hits and they want nothing to do with me.

I really want them to have self-confidence some of that comes from accomplishments. I also want them to have different peer groups so they are never in a situation to do something they're uncomfortable with just to fit in.

Too Many extra-curriculuars can do more harm than good
Organized Sport reduces risky health behaviours
Extra-curriculars can lead to anxiety

Comments

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Recency Bias

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