Are Your Kids Too Busy? A Faith-Based Guide to Choosing Activities

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

- 1 Corinthians 10:31

The world of extracurricular activities for kids today is absolutely overwhelming. From sports leagues to art classes, robotics clubs to theater groups, the options seem endless. As parents, we naturally want our children to be well-rounded, so we start looking for fun and educational activities early on. Maybe we ask other parents what they’re doing, sign our kids up for something we loved as children, or just go with whatever fits into our schedule.

But before we fill up every spare moment with activities, we need to pause. Are these choices truly the best for our children and our family? The decisions we make about extracurriculars can have a big impact on our home life, spiritual growth, and even our children’s hearts. Here are a few important things to consider.

Keeping Christ at the Center

The first and most important question to ask is: How will this activity impact our family’s spiritual life? Will it pull us away from important routines like church, family devotions, or prayer? Does it align with our faith and values?

It’s also important to think about the people involved. What kind of influence will the coaches, instructors, and other kids have on your child? Is the environment one that encourages godly character, or does it expose them to attitudes and behaviors that could pull them away from their faith? Even details like the music played at practice or the conversations happening in the stands matter. Every activity your child participates in is shaping them—so make sure it’s shaping them in a way that honors Christ.

Aligning with Family Priorities

Before jumping into a new activity, step back and look at your family’s overall vision and priorities. What matters most to you? Some activities will automatically be a “no” simply because they conflict with your family’s commitments—like regular church attendance, family dinners, or time together.

For example, let’s say your family values spending evenings together and staying active. You see two sports options for your kids: a swim team that meets at dinnertime and a family-friendly tennis club that meets after dinner, where parents can participate too. Both encourage physical activity, but only one fits with your family’s goals of togetherness and faithfulness to prior commitments.

It’s also crucial to avoid overloading your schedule. Activities are great, but they should never take over your family life. Parents have the responsibility to disciple their children, and that can’t happen if everyone is always rushing from one thing to the next.

Considering Each Child’s Strengths and Interests

Every child is unique, and the best activities for them will depend on their natural strengths, interests, and personality. Some kids thrive in team sports, while others prefer creative or academic pursuits. The key is to help them grow in the gifts God has given them while being open to new opportunities.

Also, remember that interests change. A child who loved soccer for years might suddenly be drawn to drama or woodworking. While there are times when it’s good to encourage perseverance, forcing a child to stay in an activity they no longer enjoy isn’t always the best choice. Prayerfully consider each situation, asking God for wisdom on when to push through and when to pivot.

Thinking About the Future

Extracurriculars can play a huge role in shaping a child’s future, so it’s wise to think about the long-term impact of certain activities. Will this skill be something they can use in their future work, ministry, or family life? Not everything has to have a clear career path, but it’s good to consider whether the time and energy spent on an activity will have lasting value.

Some paths can also lead to environments that may challenge their faith. For instance, if your child is passionate about acting, what happens if that passion leads them toward Hollywood? Rather than shutting down their interest, help them develop a Christ-centered perspective on their gifts. Teach them to use their talents in a way that honors God, whether that means participating in church productions, Christian film work, or using their skills in ministry.

Stewarding Resources Wisely

Let’s be honest—activities can be expensive. Between uniforms, travel costs, private lessons, and equipment, the costs add up fast, especially with multiple kids. But here’s the truth: Providing for your family doesn’t mean giving them every opportunity available. Nowhere in the Bible does it say parents must ensure their children play soccer or take piano lessons.

If finances are tight, look for creative alternatives. Online lessons, community programs, and even skill-sharing with other families can be great, budget-friendly options. And if God has blessed you with extra resources, consider using them to bless your children in ways that align with your family’s values.

Making Intentional Choices

At the end of the day, the goal isn’t to fill your child’s schedule with as many activities as possible—it’s to be intentional. Choose activities that support your family’s values, encourage your child’s God-given strengths, and allow them to shine the light of Christ in whatever setting they’re in.

Key Points:

• Extracurricular activities should be chosen intentionally, supporting your Christian family values and priorities.
• Consider how an activity impacts your child’s spiritual life, your family time, and their personal growth.
• Steward your resources wisely, trusting that God will provide what your children truly need.
• Use activities as a way to teach your child how to shine for Christ and glorify God in all they do.

The right activities can help your child grow in confidence, skills, and faith—but they should never come at the cost of what matters most. By making prayerful and thoughtful decisions, you can create a schedule that blesses your family and points your children toward Christ every step of the way.