A child has more stress and worries than maybe their parents did. Life at school is getting more competitive and there is increasing pressure from family, teachers and peers to perform well. The job market is also increasingly competitive and it is no wonder that so many teenagers work very hard, much harder than their mum or dad did before them.
It is so important, then, that emphasis is placed on leisure time and to have a little bit of fun with a few glowsticks in the evening and to simply chill out and be teenagers.
It is tempting to work on homework and revision every night, but all work and no play makes Jack and Jill very dull playmates indeed. A little light hearted fun once a twice a week is vital to maintain that healthy balance in life.
Loafing around on bean bags and chatting to friends is not a waste of time. Our virtual lives are becoming more isolated and it is important for children to maintain regular physical communications with their friends. Some music on the iPod, maybe something light on the TV for friends to enjoy together, social interaction and downtime is necessary.
Children do need to work hard, that is not in question, but they also need to play when appropriate and not grow up too quickly.