Having fun is biggest win for children in organized sports
Children of all ages enjoy playing sports - and they are more likely to keep playing as long as they're having fun.
While more children are joining organized sports activities at younger ages, experts note that they are more likely to drop out when winning takes priority over enjoyment.
"If we offer children a variety of sports for all skill levels, they are more likely to try new activities and stick with the ones they enjoy," said pediatrician Dr. Kelsey Logan, a spokesperson for the Itasca-based American Academy of Pediatrics. "The interest should start with the child, not the parent."
Most children are ready to play organized sports at about age 6, according to the AAP. Before that, young children should spend an ample amount of time daily in free play. Running, leaping and climbing are examples of free play that help children develop motor skills needed for organized sports participation.
Schools play a strong role in children remaining active in sports. According to the AAP, physical education programs in preschools and elementary schools can positively influence children's long-term participation in organized sports, physical activity and cardiovascular health. Junior high and high schools should offer multiple levels of sports play so everyone can be active, including athletes who cannot or do not want to compete at very high levels.
Parents and coaches are important, too. Kids play sports longer when parents give positive encouragement. Parents are encouraged to ask questions about sports programs to ensure a safe environment, including questions about hiring procedures, codes of conduct and communication between coach and athlete. And coaches who view organized sports with a respectful, development- and fun-focused approach are more likely to have athletes who enjoy and stay in sports.
"Young athletes typically learn skills and values that they can use in everyday life," said pediatrician Dr. Steven Cuff, who, along with Logan, serves on the AAP Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness. "The camaraderie and teamwork needed on a playing field offers lasting lessons on personal responsibility, sportsmanship, goal-setting and emotional control."
Parents who set a good example on the sidelines can support the positive aspects of hard work, follow-through on commitments, and sportsmanship without over-emphasizing the pressure to win.
It's also best to avoid pushing a child to specialize in a single sport until high school to avoid burnout and over-scheduling.
Researchers have found that children of all ages who participate in sports often have higher levels of energy and physical activity than nonathletic peers, and sports may be an important way to combat obesity.
Sports participation can also improve well-being in some children with disabilities, as seen in Special Olympics or other adapted sports.
Teenagers who participate in sports report fewer mental health problems and have lower odds of emotional distress compared with peers.
"Families can help by encouraging children to 'sample' sports, so they can figure out what they find enjoyable," Logan said. "Ideally, there is an activity for everyone, with the focus on having fun."
For more information on creating a positive youth experience in sports, visit HealthyChildren.org, the AAP website for parents.
Children's health is an ongoing series. This week's article is courtesy of the American Academy of Pediatrics in Itasca.