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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

to feel hassled and overscheduled but

3 replies

zenlikecalm · 09/11/2010 10:51

at the same time constantly tempted to add yet more activities for my primary age DCs? Last year Wednesdays were a total pain, with DD1 having to be taken to a music lesson, and DD2 doing tennis and an art class (all just happened to be on same afternoon). This year dropped the art class (as it was getting repetitive as well as pricey for what it was), but DD2 now complaining she wants to quit tennis and do a different art class.

Why am I even considering this? They are so spoiled, being driven everywhere (not ready to cycle or walk), bought supplies which then gather dust expecting everything to be handed to them and cleared up afterwards.

But if I say, fine, why go to a class, do some art, the stuff is on the shelf, she will sit and read a (easy) book instead. No motivation-am I supposed to supply that too? Maybe I should draw and paint the B picture as well. Later she will say why can't I go to art class again.

Who's fault is it? I blame the parents. actually maybe it's partly also down to everything being overdone for them at nursery then school, and computer games and tv being so much easier than doing anything else (for me too!). oops...

OP posts:
ZacharyQuack · 09/11/2010 10:58

It's OK for children to be bored sometimes. In fact, it's quite a good thing.

Why not give them a limited choice of classes, pick one or two each term.

Chil1234 · 09/11/2010 11:53

It's a mistake to think that parent = children's entertainer. My friend's two children are constantly being ferried around to various activities & playdates and, as a result, they have no idea what to do with themselves when left to their own devices.

Leave plenty of gaps in their days, provide reasonable amount of toys, crayons, books, TV etc., sound encouraging when necessary, then let them get on with it.

tjacksonpfc · 09/11/2010 12:54

My dcs do 1 activity which is taekwon-do twice a week training, the occasional day over a weekend for differnt parts of it.

They don't do after school clubs as they are normally on training nights. I personally find this more than enough anymore and they are shattered. Plus they like having time to play with there lego or do arty stuff at home.

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