How to avoid the controversial over-scheduling and create a balanced schedule for your family? Guest expert Dr. Karyn Gordon has three tips on how to successfully manage your schedule this fall for a thriving family.
Avoid over-scheduling as this affects our mood and communication, “The idea is that you don’t want to be under-scheduled” says Dr . Karyn, “People actually don’t manage their time well when they have too much free time.” Figuring out the right balance can be a challenge, but it’s important for the health of your family. Here are Dr. Karyn’s three tips for planning your schedule this fall.
Tip 1: Every family member has different needs.
Remember that every family member will have different needs, “If you have an extroverted child, that child is going to want to be in a lot of different programs. If you have an introverted child, they might be fine having a few nights a week at home” says Dr. Karyn. You should try to customize the schedule for each of your children as much as possible.
Keep in mind that August is both a good and bad time to think about the fall schedule. “In August, we’re relaxed and when we’re relaxed and trying to plan out our schedule we might say yes to too much.” Says Dr. Karyn. Instead, think back to last year and what worked in your schedule and what didn’t work and use that as a benchmark.
Tip 2: Get the kids involved.
Get your kids to look at all the different extra-curricular activities and have them prioritize them. What’s Dr. Karyn’s golden rule for extra-curricular activities? “Try and do one extra-curricular a season.” She finds this to be a good rhythm for her family.
Tip 3: Schedule unscheduled time.
“Schedule your unscheduled time!” says Dr. Karyn, try to have one or two nights a week where you don’t have anything on the go. This will help create a rhythm with your family.
For more tips from Dr. Karyn Gordon, watch the clip below!