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The more fun and games, the better

TRALEE PEARCE AND DAVID ANDREATTA

From Tuesday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 12:36 PM EDT 12/09/07

Teens who put in more hours on structured after-school activities see more benefits, new research says ...Read the full article

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  1. Bonnie Lass from Canada writes: Kids participating in extra curricular activities of their own choosing is one thing, it's when parents push their kids to do things they don't really want to do that's a problem.
  2. Rollo M Tomasi from Belgium writes: Sounds like someone was forced into something she'd have rather not. Poor Bonnie Lass. Last I heard in the dark days of the evil empire (Mike Harris) teachers were forced to provide these activities for free--ie involuntary participation for no more money. Has this changed.
  3. Bonnie Lass from Canada writes: Actually I was never forced into anything and had to beg my parents to let me participate in stuff. But it's something I see all the time. It's like a competition between parents and what their kids are "in" is like a status symbol. I say let your kids pick some activities, support them in pursuing their interests but don't force them to do soccer/dancing/pottery/4-H/whatever if they're not interested. Find out what their interests are and encouarge them in that direction.

    As for the Mike Harris empire, I wouldn't know. I'm on the East Coast.
  4. Rollo M Tomasi from Belgium writes: Generally, it's better for kids to have some activities, even if that means cajoling, pushing and supporting them into something they might not otherwise choose. But not quite enough may be infinitely preferable to too much.
  5. T Hurdman from Calgary, Canada writes: A distinction needs to be made between children and teenagers. The more structured activities teenagers do, the better (as long as it's of their own choosing, of course). It's putting three year olds in art, swimming, dancing, soccer and piano lessons that's problematic. Young children need to play with others in a relatively free environment, not told what to do every minute.
  6. Proud Canadian from United States writes: Sometimes kids need to be pushed into things, moved out of their comfort zone and to try new activities and not always pick what their friends are doing; leasd to a more balanced life and it stops them from voting for the Lie berals. : )

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