MORE THAN A GAME: THE WORLD OF YOUTH SPORTS
Signing your child up for a sport is about more than just a game. It's a chance for them to build confidence, make new friends, and develop lifelong skills. But with countless choices and a lot of conflicting advice, it can be hard to know what's best. We'll explore the key things to look for when choosing a sport to help you make an informed decision that goes far beyond the scoreboard.
What is the Proper Age to Start a Child in Sports?
There isn't one "right" age to start a child in sports. While many organized leagues target children around 6 or 7, that's often because they've developed the basic motor skills, balance, and attention span needed for a team setting.
However, that doesn't mean younger children can't benefit from sports. In fact, many programs are designed for toddlers and preschoolers, focusing on fundamental movement and fun. From toddler tumbling and swim classes to T-ball and dance, there are plenty of options available for even the youngest athletes. The key is to find an activity that fits your child's developmental stage and, most importantly, their interests.
Specialize or Multiple Sports?
It's a common desire for parents to share their passions with their children and hope they excel in a sport they love. However, encouraging them to specialize in a single sport too early can be a mistake.
Instead, a better approach is to expose them to a variety of sports. This gives them the opportunity to discover what truly interests them. Waiting to specialize in one sport until they are in their mid-to-late teens (around ages 15-18) has numerous benefits. It helps to prevent burnout, develops a wide range of fundamental athletic skills, and sets them up for a lifelong love of being active.
Kick It Up a Notch?
Taking on travel sports is a significant commitment that can offer unique opportunities for your child, but it also comes with a lot of considerations for the whole family. Moving beyond local leagues often means more intensive practices, weekend-long tournaments, and considerable financial investment. Before you jump into the world of travel sports, it's important to weigh the pros and cons, from the potential for higher-level coaching and competition to the impact on your family's schedule and budget.
Things to Consider:
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Readiness - in terms of physical & motor skills, emotional maturity & interest
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Logistics - time commitment & financial costs
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Program Quality - balance between skill development, fun, and overall well-being & coaching that focuses on development & growth of the child
Pros of Travel Sports
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Taking skills to the next level
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Builds friendships
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Daily activity
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Traveling
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Learning Lessons
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Perseverance
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Committing to promises
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Knowing how to work as a team
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Standing up for yourself
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Working on and succeeding in goals
Cons of Travel Sports
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Expensive Cost
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Time Consuming
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Possible Burnout
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Greater Risk of Injury
Sources:
https://uscenterforsafesport.org
