Julie–That was sort of my thinking–give her something to focus time, energy, and attention, and to build up a group of buddies in, and it will provide a strong foundation.

Stephanie–Oh, yeah, the horses! I’ve made some small inroads on locating local horseback riding places. I think it would be good, too, for learning about “taking care of others”, because everything I’ve heard about folks who “do” horses is that they “DO” horses all the way–from mucking the stables to grooming to riding. Sort of a way of showing her there are some things you have to work for, as well. (And you’re always welcome to comment on horses! )

I had a very tough time in middle school and early high school, and the riding, and the friends I made through riding, are definitely what got me through. If OD is still interested as she gets older, I think it is a great grounding activity, that provides another social outlet separate from school.

Someday I’ll comment on something other than horses, I promise!

stephanie

The outside activities give her a bigger playing field. I read they are crucial for building a balanced growing up time that provide more confidence.

If your only thing is school, and all your activities and socializations are THERE, then it is out of perspective important.

If it is just one thing, say out of three, then eh…not too big, not too small.

Make sense?

Good post.