There are many benefits of sports activities for children, but parents often question how young is too young? Preschoolers might be too young for most organized sports, but parents may consider unstructured free play, such as running, throwing, catching or swimming.
As children reach ages six to nine, they are better at following direction, and their vision, attention span and skills improve. They may enjoy organized activities like T-ball, soccer, gymnastics, tennis or martial arts.
Between the ages of ten and twelve, children are typically ready to take on complex skill sports such as baseball, football, soccer, basketball and volleyball. Your child will probably show a preference for certain sports and activities, so it's important to allow them to choose an activity they will enjoy. Trying different sports is a way to check out other activities.
If organized team athletics isn't interesting to your child, encourage other ways to stay active, such as biking, hiking, running and climbing. Help your child get the most out of these activities by being involved. Have realistic expectations, model respectful behavior, and provide positive feedback. Talk about what your child observes in sporting events, and help them develop good sportsmanship.
Sports help children develop physical skills, get exercise, make friends, have fun, learn teamwork, learn to play fair, and improve self-esteem. The lessons learned during children's sports will shape values and behaviors for adult life.
Check with your child's teacher at Endless Discoveries Child Development Center if you need their professional opinion.
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