My dad always pushed my brother and I. We were always encouraged - often hard - to put our blood, sweat, and tears into everything we did. And between soccer, track, hockey, swimming, and school, we did an awful lot. My mom often thought he was too hard on us, we were often too hard on ourselves. I don't know who was right.

I think of my childhood often and relate it to what I'd like to do with Nolan as his parent - I'd like to encourage, without being pushy, provide help when he needs it but not what he doesn't. It's difficult, especially with all the media coverage lately about pushy parents causing stress to overscheduled kids.

But a new study contradicts popular belief about "over-scheduling", noting that students who take part in organized activities "are more competent than other children, better adjusted, less prone to antisocial behaviour such as dropping out of school, getting arrested or substance use, and they function better in the classroom."

I think it's a fine, line though - there's a difference between being busy and being almost hysterically busy. I hope I can find the right side of the line and provide Nolan with a healthy, well-rounded childhood.