From sports, to music lessons, to youth groups, it’s very easy for you and your kids to become quickly over committed. Ass much as we’d like to keep our kids active and engaged, over-extending is simply not good for them or us as parents. An overbooked family, spends little time together, is usually warn out, and tends to argue. Children are tired, irritable, and easily distracted. They may feel nervous and complain of headaches or stomachaches. They may also have a tough time keeping their grades up at school. If you have a busy schedule and your kids are displaying any of these signs there’s a good chance they are being stretched too far.

Here are a few tips to keep your schedule reasonable:
1. Set house rules before signing your children up for activities, like playing only one sport per season or no more than two practices during the school week.
2. Balance activities for your children and yourself. Driving your health and sanity into the ground to accommodate your child’s schedule is not a smart thing to do.
4. Set aside family time. The family should eat dinner together at least once a week. This may mean eating a bit earlier or later, but it’s critical that everyone is there.
3. Finally, don't underestimate the importance of downtime. Everyone needs a chance to relax, reflect on the day, or just do nothing.