Children today have a lot of pressure on them. They are expected to be good at studies, extra-curricular activities, public speaking and maintain a social life as well. Parents enroll their kids in multiple extra curricular activities like swimming, dancing, karate along with coding, extra tuition for school subjects. This makes the schedule of kids very busy. This is called FOMO parenting, where parents have this fear that their child is going to miss out on skills and fall behind compared to other kids.





Why Parents Fall Into FOMO Parenting

• Many parents start comparing their child to other kids who are engaging in different types of activities. So they also start the same activity for their child.


• They might also be influenced by social media or might feel competitive. They want their child to be the best in everything.

How Over-Scheduling Affects Children

Constantly packed schedules can lead to burnout and stress.

• With back to back activities, the child might learn new skills, but it can also affect them negatively.


• Constantly packed schedules can lead to burnout and stress.


• Children are deprived of sleep, activities and a simple childhood.


• Too many activities might lose the child’s own creativity.


• They might even lose interest due to exhaustion and stress.


• They have extra pressure to do well in every activity.


• Academic pressure increases.

How Parents Can Create a Healthier Balance

Make sure to spend time with them and allow them to be a “kid”.

• Let the child choose activities they genuinely are interested in and enjoy.


• Try to keep some free days without any classes so they can relax and unwind.


• Do not compare the kid to other children. It can put them in pressure and make them insecure.


• Focus on the activities a child is naturally gifted with.


• Make sure to spend time with them and allow them to be a “kid”.

Balance is the key to a healthy and happy childhood. The kid should be able to enjoy their childhood as well, so that they can have pleasant memories and grow up to be confident and happy individuals.



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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is FOMO parenting?
FOMO parenting happens when parents enroll kids in too many activities because they fear their child might fall behind others.

How can parents reduce pressure on kids?
Allow them to choose activities they enjoy, avoid comparisons, keep some days free and prioritise their emotional well-being.

Why do parents fall into FOMO parenting?
Social comparison, competition and social media influence often make parents feel their child must excel in everything.