A recent study by the University of Georgia suggests that high schoolers' participation in enrichment activities, such as tutoring and sports, may be detrimental to their mental health. Researchers found that while additional enrichment activities are unlikely to boost academic performance, they negatively impact students' emotional well-being and cognitive skills.
Assistant Professor Carolina Caetano, co-author of the study, emphasized that there's a limit to the benefits of enrichment activities. As students devote more time to such pursuits, they risk diminishing returns, particularly in terms of non-cognitive skills like emotional regulation.
The study, which analyzed data from over 4,300 children, underscores the need for a balanced approach to scheduling. While overscheduling can harm children's socio-emotional development, scaling back on enrichment activities might foster important life skills and improve overall well-being. Caetano encourages parents to prioritize their child's mental health and consider the societal implications of overscheduling.