Choosing The Right Sport For Your Child

The health, mental and social benefits of team sport have long been trumpeted, and, as such, it’s something that many children are born into.

But kids come in all shapes and sizes and from all backgrounds; sometimes choosing the right sport for your child isn’t easy.

Courtesy of Nimble Sports, here are some questions to ask yourself to help ensure that your child gets the full benefits of sporting participation.

Does Your Child Like Any Sports More Than Others?

If your son shows an affinity for basketball, or if your daughter has expressed a desire to take up archery, for example, you at least have a starting point to find a sport your child will enjoy. Answering these questions can help ensure that your child gets the maximum benefit from participating in sports.

What Is Your Child’s Personality?

Some kids respond better to pressure than others. Some kids like to be part of a team while others prefer to participate in solo activities. Make sure the sport you sign your child up for is suited for his or her personality.

Is Your Child Having Fun?

Perhaps most important: Make sure the sport your child chooses is one he or she has fun playing. Otherwise, the time, effort and money your family puts into it may all be for nothing once your child decides he or she no longer wants to participate.

What Are Your Child’s Physical Traits?

Your child’s physical traits can help determine whether a sport is right for him or her. For example, taller children may excel at basketball, while children who are stockier may find they do better at football or wrestling.

Do You Have Time for the Sport?

Because many families have busy schedules, some sports with a higher-commitment level for practices and games might not make much sense for them. Some sports such as baseball and softball also sometimes require travelling to tournaments and road games.

How Old Is Your Child?

Certain sports may be a better fit for older children because they require more physical coordination, fine motor skills or teamwork. Sports that require complicated strategy such as football, for example, may not be a good fit for younger children.

How Much Does the Sport Cost?

Some sports such as tennis or basketball don’t require much in the way of equipment, whereas hockey and football need lots of equipment. Always keep your family’s budget in mind when looking into different youth sports.

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