(HealthDay News) -- After-school activities generally are good for your teen, except when the added stress outweighs any benefit.
The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests teens should:
Ask questions before committing. Find out how much time the activity requires, and consider whether it fits it in with school and homework.
Consider if the activity could cause school performance to suffer.
Think about whether there will still be time for fun and relaxation.
Pay attention after joining. If there's too much stress, have a conversation with the activity leader. There may be time to rejoin later.