By LINDSEY TANNER
The Associated Press
Monday, October 9, 2006; 1:13 AM

CHICAGO -- Here's some soothing medicine for stressed-out parents and overscheduled kids: The American Academy of Pediatrics says what children really need for healthy development is more good, old-fashioned playtime.
Many parents load their children's schedules with get-smart videos, enrichment activities and lots of classes in a drive to help them excel. The efforts often begin as early as infancy.
Spontaneous, free play _ whether it's chasing butterflies, playing with "true toys" like blocks and dolls, or just romping on the floor with mom and dad _ often is sacrificed in the shuffle, a new academy report says.

Category(s): Parenting News
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