Playing Sports Is Good For Kids

Photo credit: Yives

Playing sports is good for kids in several ways. Organized sports offer a great opportunity to exercise. We all know how hard it is for kids these days to get enough exercise. While experts say that kids need a full hour of exercise each day, many kids hardly get any exercise at all, especially during the week. Television, computer games and even too much homework are the culprits.

Experts say that engaging in sports also enhances children’s self-esteem. But this is only true if the child is part of a youth sports program that promotes mutual respect and encouragement. Children’s sports teams that have a stressful, “win at all costs” atmosphere could in fact be damaging kids’ self-esteem.

Belonging to a sports team helps children develop physical skills. Children learn fundamental motor skills, such as running and throwing, as well as skills specific to their sports of choice. These skills will stay with them for life and help them be active as adults too.

Being part of a sports team is obviously a great way to make new friends. Most importantly, playing sports is FUN.

When deciding on a sports team, it’s important to allow the child to choose which sports to engage in. This is not about parents living vicariously through their children or making up for their own unfulfilled dreams. This is about the child and what works best for them.

It’s also important to remember that every child develops at a different rate and that not all sports are appropriate for every age. It’s always a good idea to consider your child’s maturity and skill level before signing them up.

To efficiently manage your sports tema, sign up with UpToUs. We offer online groups for parents that help manage classrooms and sports teams.