Tips for Managing Multiple Kids in Extra Curricular Activities
Maybe it’s the hazy, lazy days of summer ending and you’re facing the chaos that the back to school season brings. Or, maybe you’re mid-season and wondering how you’ll make it through to the end of the playoffs, I know I was always on top of my kids’ extra-curriculars in my busy house. I had six kids in ice hockey, along with a bunch of other sports, plus dance lessons, theatre, and musical instruments. I know that facing a hectic activity schedule can be more than a bit daunting.
Here’s How I Managed Six Kids in Extra-Curricular Activities:
Whiteboard Activity Calendar
Over the years, I have found creating my own whiteboard calendar helped immensely. You can colour code by child or activity and hang it in a high-traffic area. I liked my kids to be independent so they referred to the schedule and got themselves prepared for whatever extra curricular activities they had that evening. They made sure they had their dance bag packed or their taekwondo outfit on. No one had the excuse of not being ready on time for their activity because they knew exactly what is on every day.
Organize a Carpool
Nothing aannoyed this mama more than turning up at extra curricular activities and seeing a bunch of other moms from the neighbourhood. The thought of us all rushing through dinner only to drive to the same place is crazy-making. I posted my kids’ extra-curricular activities on the local neighbourhood moms Facebook group to see if anyone had kids registered in the same activities. As a result, I have carpooled for every activity my kids were in. It’s a beautiful thing.
Encourage Siblings to do the Same Extra Curricular Activities
Especially when kids are little and have not necessarily found their “thing”, try to keep your sanity by putting them in the same extra curricular activities. You can get a lot more done and be more efficient and productive if they are in the same gymnastics class or on the same hockey team. Being practical does not make you a bad parent.
Say NO
You don’t have to enroll your kids in every activity they want. Maybe you can’t afford it. Maybe you can’t get home from work in time to take them. Maybe you don’t like the activity. Maybe you think they should be spending more time playing outside and having free time. Whatever the reason, you’re allowed to have it and, again, you’re still a good parent.
Good luck juggling your kids AND activities!
