I was surprised at my friend’s answer when I asked if her son was trying out for the junior high football team. “No, my son is lazy. He watches TV, plays video games or sleeps every day after school.” As she continued to speak, I realized she didn’t encourage after-school activities because she failed to recognize their benefits.
Camping has become an increasingly popular family activity, and it’s not hard to see why. There’s no better way to experience all of nature’s offerings. A leisurely hike, jumping fish, s’mores around the campfire - it all adds up to hours of stress-free quality time with the ones you love most. And even the plushest camping accommodations are inexpensive compared to other lodging. The 2012 Canadian Nature Survey found that 28 per cent of Albertans go camping at least once a year. So when in-town temps soar this summer, pack up your family and head to the mountains for a breath of fresh air.
Q: I am wondering about after-school activities, how busy should my child/youth be?
Back to school means a return to extracurricular activities for many children. Some children are out of the house nearly every night of the week. I have worked with children and families as a resource coordinator and mentor for many years. When parents come to me with academic or behavioral concerns regarding their children, I quickly ask what they are involved in after school. If the list is long, my advice is usually to scale back and see if things turn around.
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