While kids do need some down time to watch TV and play video games, they should also participate in an after-school activity that encourages them to learn new skills. Too many children are being left unsupervised during these hours, which can lead to childhood obesity, juvenile crime and antisocial behavior. Choosing the right program for your child is an important decision. In this article, we’ll discuss your options and help you select a program that’s both fun and educational.

We’ve all seen them at music recitals and sports events; parents who expect their kids to achieve the things that they didn’t as a child. Instead of expecting your kids to relive your childhood for you, let their interests and aptitudes guide your decision about what after-school activity is chosen. If you really want your child to try new things, then give them a list of activities and ask them to choose. This will give them the sense that they are making decisions for themselves while still allowing you to monitor their after school time.

If you are supervising after school hours yourself, then take advantage of this time. Come up with a schedule of things-to-do based on your child’s needs and interests and assign a category for each day. For example, Mondays can be dedicated to sports or other physical pursuits, Tuesdays can be arts and crafts day, Wednesdays can be cooking day and so on. Look on the Internet and you will no doubt find 365 afterschool activities, or visit craft stores for ideas. It’s also a good idea to get your child’s friends involved in their favorite after-school pursuits. It encourages the kids to be social and it gives other parents a break.

Getting kids to eat healthy meals can be a chore in itself. You can get around even the most finicky eater by having them help plan the menu. Start by having them draw a pie chart that lays out the four food groups. Once they have a list of healthy food choices, have them put together a meal. You can help them by making healthy alternatives to popular kids’ dishes. Instead of greasy fish and chips, have breaded, baked fish fingers with oven fried sweet potato fries. Put a healthy spin on nachos by using baked organic tortillas smothered in fresh veggies and low fat sour cream. For a sweet treat, make your own granola bars with fresh oats, bran, nuts and fruit. Your kids will learn to make their favorite meals and snacks while you make sure they are getting a nutritious diet.

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