I would offer a slightly different perspective, which is to consider the enrichment that she will carry with her for the rest of her life. It's not just about fun in the now or future "advantage." Same with a college education, you come out of it a different person, whether or not you "use" it in a practical sense.
I totally agree with this. I believe that no education is wasted. Perhaps double-true of arts education. It gives a person an informed and empathetic perspective.
We spend a lot on extracurriculars. This is partly (largely?) because our kids have unusual needs and we are willing to tailor their free time to meet those needs. I do look at how much my child is enjoying and growing from an activity before deciding to continue for another enrollment period-- we try to keep them in things they genuinely like doing, but also things that push them to be a little ambitious about stretching to learn new things.
We can do this only because we have enough to do it; I wouldn't not fund my retirement to give the kids this much.
DeeDee
