Is your child asking to participate in group sports? From soccer to gymnastics, there has been an explosion in youth sports teams in the last decade. Some of these clubs offer a very enriching opportunity for youth to increase their skill levels and learn to be part of a team. Some of them are over-zealous to the point of ruining what could be the opportunity to develop a love for a sport. Follow these recommendations from the professionals when considering youth team sports for your budding athlete.
The most important point to remember is that this is an opportunity for your child – not for you. The overly competitive nature of sports for young children is often the result of pressure from the parents on the coaches. It’s more important that your son or daughter learn how to work on a team than how far they throw the ball. It’s more important to teach them how to win or lose, than weather or not they receive a trophy. There are terrific life skills to be learned from a strong youth sports team.
Have your child select a sport and take advantage of the awesome deals offered by Groupon for athletic shoes and athletic apparel at Footlocker. Properly fitting shoes will make a huge difference in their enjoyment and performance. Have your child take responsibility for maintaining their uniforms and keeping up with sports equipment and shoes. This is all part of the self-discipline required to participate in team sports.
If your child commits to joining a team, they need to know that that commitment must endure through the season. The other teammates will be depending on them to arrive on time to practices and games. If your child is not in the mood, feigns a headache or suggests homework is too burdensome and they’d prefer not to go to practice, remind them of the commitment they made to the team. If it becomes a constant battle, do not sign them up for a sports team for the following season. Sitting out for a season will seem like huge punishment to them, but it’s actually an opportunity for them to decide if they really want to continue with the commitment.
