Prior to using this Quick Discussion Guide, you and your child may want to do any or all of the following activities on "It's My Life":

• Read the "Time Management" article

• Work together to come up with a "You Said It" submission for this topic.

• Print out the Crossword Puzzle and/or IML Journal page "Time Management." Complete it together or encourage your child to complete it on his/her own.

• Print out the blank Daily Schedule and Weekly Planner pages to complete with your child.

Discussion Questions:

• What is the one thing you feel like you never have time for? Why is it important for you to make time for this?

• Do you feel like you have too much to do in the way of household chores and duties? What would you feel is a fair amount?

• What about afterschool clubs and sports? Do you feel comfortable with the amount of time you spend on them, or do you think it’s too much? Would it help to talk about simplifying your life by cutting out or reducing some of your structured activities?

• Do you think you need more free time to be by yourself or with friends? How can we fit this into your schedule?

• Can I remind you of responsibilities in a way that won’t make you angry or frustrated? How can we set up a system or agreement for me to help you manage your time?

Remember:
-- Kids need free, unstructured time. Scheduling too many activities can put pressure on your kids, spread their attention and energy too thin, and make it difficult, in the long run, for them to learn to manage their own time.

--How you manage your own time can set an example for your child. Do what you can to slow down your own life and spend quality time with your family.

http://pbskids.org/itsmylife
Copyright © 2005 CastleWorks, Inc. All rights reserved.