Activities to encourage a successful teen

Activity overload
Some teens have so many activities on the go that parents fear they will burn out. If they appear to be happy and keep up their grades, should you allow them to continue at full speed? Yes, but pay close attention and try to determine whether or not they're truly happy. Some kids, like some adults, are high-energy types who are happiest when they're constantly in motion. Others might have a jam-packed schedule only because that's what they've been accustomed to since early childhood.

Obviously, a teen who's often tired, frazzled, forgetful, and failing to keep commitments needs to put on the brakes. Sometimes they feel they need your permission to do a little less. If they resist, insist: "Hey, you're just too busy these days. I want you to drop one activity, and you can let me know at the end of the week which one you've chosen. If you can't decide, I'll be happy to decide for you." Your teen might feel relieved.

A teen struggling with a serious problem -- anorexia, for instance -- sometimes tries masking the trouble with a schedule that is crammed with structured activities. She may use constant busyness to control her weight or help disguise weight loss from her family. A problem such as this needs expert care and guidance, and if you suspect serious underlying trouble, you should consult your family doctor immediately.

Quiet leisure and time for reflection are also important for most teens. An adolescent who makes no time for introspection during these years may not develop the capacity to do so as an adult. But if your teen appears to be thriving at home and school, maintains a sense of humour, and fits some quiet time into his hectic schedule, then he's very likely to be in control of his active agenda.