Some kids rush from school to soccer practice to karate. Sure, each of these activities can be a good thing on its own. But together, they may be too much of a good thing.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says that kids need "down time." They suggest that play should remain a central part of childhood.

There's no question that kids benefit from organized activities. But it is just as important for kids to have time to organize themselves.

Does your family's schedule strike the right balance? Here are some things to think about:

• Recognize how important free play is to children. Build in time for your child to hang out with her friends, develop hobbies, read or just daydream. This unstructured time is when she exercises her body and her imagination.
• Take cues from your child. Does she love soccer? Or is she only on the team because the sport is important to you? Many families allow each child to choose one activity per season.
• Make family time a priority. If you feel like you only see your child while you're in the car, rethink your schedule. The most important parenting jobs--listening, caring, guiding--need time to develop.
• Remember that school comes first. If your child never starts homework until after practice at 8:00, she is overscheduled.

Reprinted with permission from the October 2009 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Elementary School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2009 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc.Source: Kenneth R. Ginsburg and the Committee on Communications and the Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health, "The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds," Pediatrics, January 2007 (American Academy of Pediatrics, www.pediatrics.org).