Pressure Cooker Living is Bad for Learning

Many parents fall into the trap of equating activity with accomplishment. They keep their kids on the fly with clubs, after school activities, sports teams, music lessons, and a host of other things!

Sure, it is great to develop a well-rounded child, and expand their horizons. But too much activity in a child's schedule and too little "down time" can create problems.

Are your kids crabby, over-tired, or forgetful? Their little brains and bodies are probably crying out for a break!

Down time allows the brain to process new information and integrate new learning experiences. It fosters independence in thought and action. It can provide opportunities to develop the imagination and to engage in creative, unstructured play. It also allows time for outdoor exercise, exploring nature, or just enjoying a moment of blissful unwinding!

Children need to learn how to make simple choices, and to enjoy the feeling of autonomy. Overscheduling a child's day with structured activity leaves all the decision making in the parent's hands. Then children develop a mindset that they can do nothing unless they are told to!

Children can develop self-esteem issues wwhen they are constantly pushed to perform and do more, and every effort is scrutinized. They begin to feel they are only worthy of love or attention if they excel and make someone proud. Being just them is never enough. They are only good people if they accomplish great things.

Studies show that kids that are under constant pressure and are overstimulated are more prone to become depressed, act out or turn to drugs and alcohol for escape.

Kids need a childhood. They need to play. Playing is how children develop mental and physical skills. Play enhaces learning. So come on parents, give your kids a break!

If you want to learn more about the benefits of allowing children to play and enjoy life at a slower pace, visit these links:

Hurry Up! It's Time to Go!
http://ohioline.osu.edu/flm97/fs10.html

The Overscheduled Child: Avoiding the Hyper-Parenting Trap
http://www.hyper-parenting.com/brownpaper.htm

Better Kid Care: Play Is the Business of Kids
http://www.nncc.org/Curriculum/better.play.html

Play in the Early Years
http://www.allianceforchildhood.org/sites/allianceforchildhood.org/files/file/pdf/pdf_files/BAECF_Play_in_the_Early_Years_May07.pdf