by Stephanie Epplett

Created on: August 20, 2009   Last Updated: February 17, 2010

Depending on what activities your children do, how long their practices run, and how far you have to drive to practice, you can accomplish quite a lot of stuff or just get a few things done, but either way, utilizing your child's practice time can help you get more done.

Run Errands: Regardless of how long your child's practice is you can fill that time by running simple errands such as drop off dry cleaning, pick up prescriptions, getting the grocery shopping done or any other simple errand that can be completed during that practice time.  If your child's practice is close to home, you may even be able to do some laundry, dishes or enjoy some quiet time in the bathtub.

Attend Appointments: While your child is practicing their sport, you can use that time to make your own appointments and keep up with your own stuff. Practice time is the perfect time to visit the hairdresser, get your nails done, attend parent/teacher conferences or visit the doctor if the practice is long enough. Not only will you knock out two birds with one stone, you may even get a chance to pamper yourself in the process.

Exercise: Your child's practice time is another perfect opportunity to take care of yourself and get in some exercise. Many people find it hard to fit in time to exercise within their busy lives, utilizing your child's practice time is a great way to overcome the exercise obstacle. Regardless of whether your child practices inside or out, grab some comfortable shoes and take a brisk walk or jog or participate in a yoga class close and during the times your child practices. You may even be able to interest other parents whose children are at practice to exercise with you. After all they have the same amount of time to kill as you do.

Catch up on Emails: If you own a laptop, Blackberry or other portable device that can connect you on-line, you can use your child's practice time to catch up on emails and other on-line activities you enjoy, such as Twitter or Facebook. Catching up on your emails or surfing the web while your child practices will free up more time to relax and spend time with your family when you get home.

Return Phone Calls: Just like returning emails, practice time makes a great time to return phone calls or just chat and catch up with friends. Grab your cell phone and find a quiet place to return all the phone calls you have not had the time to do at home or work. This is also a good opportunity to schedule appointments.

Work/School: Depending on your

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