Looking Forward

It's that time of year again. No, not Christmas. Well, yes, but that's not what is troubling me today. Most of the children's extracurriculars are screeching to a halt and it is time to re-enroll. And the issues are "How much is enough?" and "How much is too much?"

Some of my kids could never sign up for too much. They would pleasantly attend any event to which I chauffeur them. Others can't function without adequate down time. But most are young and can't stay home without adult supervision so they must minimally ride in the van to sibling activities.

I'd like them to be well rounded and exposed to areas that interest them. That would be great if I had some specialists among them. 4 kids X 4 activities = 1 insane mother. More insane than usual. So how to narrow the field?

I've come up with some basic guidelines:
Rule #1: 4 kids X 4 activities = 1 insane mother
Rule #2: I can support events that I cannot provide at home.
Rule #3: I can support lifelong pursuits.
Rule #4: The child must feel truly passionate before breaking Rule #3.
Rule #5: Tim does not indefinitely tag along well.
Rule #6: You can add another event if it doesn't intrude upon my schedule.
Rule #7: We must find a session that doesn't conflict with other activities if you wish to be delivered and retrieved on time.

So, here is how it will likely shake out:
Drew: Scouts, piano, French horn*, season sport**
Ellen: Swimming, violin
Megan: Piano, seasonal sport**, story time
Timothy: He can wait until August when he gets my undivided attention.

* School band = nothing for me
** 7-8 week commitment, like YMCA session or intramurals