Tackle youth sports

Spring is finally here, and what better time to explore youth sports teams in your community than when your kids have “spring fever” and are eager to get outside!

Team sports give children the opportunity to work with their peers and coaches and challenge themselves in a safe environment. They learn the value of practice and the merits of competition. Sports also provide natural and fun opportunities for children to get regular exercise. Kids who are active tend to have stronger muscles and bones, a leaner body, decreased chances of health issues and overall a more positive outlook on life. Additionally, children who are physically fit sleep better and are more equipped to handle physical and emotional challenges.

Encouragement

There are many reasons to encourage your child to participate in youth sports. Playing sports can boost a child’s self-esteem, coordination and general fitness along with helping them learn how to work with others. Some children may be hesitant to get involved because team sports often appear competitive and intimidating. Investigate sports programs before signing up to find the best fit for your child. Talk with coaches and other parents about the philosophy of the league or team. Some athletic associations, like the Y, offer noncompetitive leagues. As children get older, they can handle more competitive aspects such as keeping score and keeping track of wins and losses. Some children may be motivated by competitive play, but most are not ready for the increased pressure until they are 11 or 12 years old. Remember that even in more competitive leagues, the atmosphere should remain positive and supportive for the children participating.

Sportsmanship

Children learn the basics of sportsmanship from the adults in their lives, especially their parents and coaches. When kids see adults behaving in a sportsmanlike way, they understand that the real winners in sports are those who know how to persevere and behave with dignity — whether they win or lose.

The right fit

If your child doesn’t seem interested in the sport they are playing, try another sport. Your child may not have the hand-eye coordination for baseball, but has the drive and the build to be a swimmer, a runner or a cyclist; plus, the idea of an individual sport may be more appealing. Talk with your child and be open to their interests in other sports or activities.

Where to sign up

Most communities have local Ys and youth sports leagues, which provide a listing of what leagues or teams are available for your children. Another option is to look into your city or county’s parks and recreation organization to see what youth sports take place in their facilities. Your child’s school may also be a great resource. Teachers and other parents can provide information on the sports available to children in the community. From soccer to T-ball, there’s bound to be a team near your home that will get your child outside and having fun with others.

Fringe benefits

In addition to the health benefits youth sports provide, outdoor activity helps combat the growing trend of too much screen time for children. Many national organizations support programs such as National Turnoff Week, or Screen-Free Week, to encourage less screen time and more family time and activities. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under the age of 2 years watch no TV at all and that screen time be limited to no more than 1-2 hours of quality programming a day for children 2 years and older.

For more information about youth sports and reducing screen time, visit KidsHealth.org

Dr. Barkley is a sports medicine physician in the Division of Consultative Pediatrics at Nemours Children’s Clinic.