Balancing School and Extracurriculars: A Guide for Students and Parents
Written By: Tanvi Kale Clinical Review by: Jacqueline Mitchell, LMSW
Introduction
Balancing academics with extracurriculars can be tough. There’s the drive to excel in school and the pull to explore passions, build skills, and have fun. But it’s not just about time management—it’s about maintaining mental and emotional well-being, too.
In today’s competitive world, many students pack their schedules with extracurriculars to boost their college applications or resumes. In fact, a College Board study shows that over 80% of students participate in at least one extracurricular activity. These activities can lead to better academic performance, improved time management, and greater self-esteem. However, juggling these commitments alongside schoolwork can quickly become overwhelming.
This guide offers practical tips for finding a healthy balance between school and extracurricular activities. Whether you’re a student trying to manage your workload or a parent supporting your child, these strategies will help you build a routine that supports both academic success and personal growth.
1. Prioritize, Plan, and Schedule
Start by listing all your responsibilities—schoolwork, extracurriculars, and personal commitments. Identify the most important activities to help you focus on what truly matters.
Use a planner or digital calendar to organize your week, setting aside time for homework, projects, and study sessions. Don’t forget to schedule breaks and downtime to recharge. Tools like TimeTree, Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, and Simple Calendar make it easy to plan and share schedules with family members.
Example of downtime: Taking 5-10 minute breaks between tasks helps refresh your mind, giving you the energy to focus on the next challenge. Downtime could also mean enjoying favorite activities, relaxing with no structured goals, or practicing self-care. Ask your child what downtime looks like for them to ensure they’re recharging effectively.
2. Set Realistic Goals and Boundaries
Know your limits and set realistic expectations. Overcommitting can lead to burnout, which can negatively impact both academics and extracurriculars. Take time to reassess your priorities as your needs and interests change.
What is burnout? Burnout happens when you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or exhausted from trying to juggle too much. Learning to recognize this and adjust accordingly is key to maintaining balance.
Setting boundaries is essential. Practice saying no when needed and communicate with teachers, coaches, and peers about your workload.
Example of boundary-setting:
● “I have a lot of schoolwork tonight. Can I do the dishes tomorrow?”
● “Something personal is going on in my family. Can I have an extension on this project?”
● “I’ve been busy with other activities. I need to stay home, but thank you for inviting me.”
3. Develop Strong Time Management Skills
Good time management is crucial. Break large tasks into smaller steps and set deadlines for each part. This approach makes big projects feel more achievable and keeps you on track.
Use tools like to-do lists or time management apps to stay organized. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and energy levels—tackling the hardest ones when you’re most focused.
Pro tip: Having a to-do list, writing down assignment due dates, and double-checking that everything is submitted on time are simple habits that can make a big difference.
4. Communicate and Seek Support
If you’re struggling to keep up, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Talk to your teachers if you need extra time or reach out to your coach if your extracurricular schedule becomes too much. Adults are often understanding when you communicate openly.
Friends and family can also offer support. They can help you stay motivated and provide a listening ear when things get tough. Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength.
5. Prioritize Self-Care and Mental Health
Amid school and extracurriculars, it’s easy to neglect self-care. But taking care of your physical and mental health is critical for long-term success. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat well, and engage in activities that relax and recharge you.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider scaling back your commitments. Your mental health should always come first. Prioritizing self-care will help you perform better both academically and in your extracurriculars.
6. Celebrate Your Achievements
Celebrate your wins, no matter how small. Whether it’s getting a good grade, completing a project, or simply making it through a challenging week, take time to recognize your efforts. Celebrating boosts your confidence and keeps you motivated.
Conclusion
Balancing school and extracurriculars doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By prioritizing your commitments, planning your schedule, setting realistic goals, and practicing self-care, you can build a routine that supports your well-being and success.
Remember, it’s not about doing everything perfectly—it’s about finding what works for you and enjoying the process.
For more tools to help manage your schedule, check out these family-friendly apps: TimeTree, Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, Simple Calendar, and Structured.
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