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Here’s a simple guide that will help you decide how much is too much for your child.
Kindergarten: 1 or 2 classes per week are enough at the beginning. Once the child settles down, look for more challenging activities like a music program.
Grade 1: One or two activities per week, play dates and playground visits are recommended. Avoid competitive sports activities. The child is still too young to have to worry about winning and losing. Physical activities and noncompetitive sports are best for this age.
Grade 2: Your child is old enough to voice opinions on what activities they want like sports, skating, swimming or computers. Many children begin lessons on a musical instrument around this age. But, remember to allow your child some ‘alone time’.
Grade 3: Socialization begins to take center stage. Team sports are a good choice.Developing motor skills, painting, drawing, etc. are good too. Let the child explore areas of interests.
Grade 4: Activities that will boost confidence are important. This will also help manage stress as this is the time when social pressure is beginning to build. Balancing increased schoolwork with other activities is very important.
Grade 5: With lots of energy they will want to do just about everything. But they may conveniently push studies to the background. So, close supervision is needed. Keep one or two days free for family time and other activities. Now is a great time to get them involved in community service.
Middle school: Steer away from TV. Get them involved in activities that reinforce learning. Academic performance can be improved by encouraging them to join clubs like the Girl/Boy Scouts, language clubs, chess clubs etc. As a rule of thumb, 16-20 hours a week of extra activity should be more than enough. What you select for your child and how long they should work at it, is basically decided by the child’s temperament. You should closely observe your child and base your decisions on their feedback.
Source: https://childdevelopmentinfo.com/how-to-be-a-parent/parenting/hurried-child/
