12 Warning Signs That Your Child May Be Overscheduled

There may not be a "right" number of activities for every child,but ask yourself these questions to check if your child's getting enough downtime.

1. Does he/she act grouchy, mopey or irritable?

2. Can he/she fall asleep at bedtime?

3. Are his/her grades slipping? Does he/she finish his/her homework?

4. Has he/she started overeating?

5. Does he/she zone out in front of the TV?

6. Is he/she complaining of stomachaches, headaches, or mysterious illnesses?

7. Does he/she get bored easily?

8. Is he/she overanxious about getting approval from authority figures?

9. When heading out the door, does he/throw a tantrum or "lose" equipment?

10. Does he/she pick fights with her siblings or complain you don't love her as much?

11. Can he/she keep track of where he/she is supposed to be?

12. Is his/her schedule draining you or your family members?

If your child exhibits a few of these behaviors on an ongoing basis you may want to re-examine his after-school schedule.