Most parents agree that encouraging your child to try a new sport or activity can be very beneficial! Not only can it provide an additional opportunity to get exercise; but mastering new skills, forming new friendships, and learning teamwork all has its advantages. Continue reading below to find out what you need to know before sports registration.
Nowadays, there are also many more sports to choose from. Some offer team involvement, and others you can perform solo. Some can be played outdoors, and others are enjoyed year-round and sometimes even indoors.
But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That is why I came up with this list of questions to consider before signing your child up for something new, and before registration opens up. Also, check out Safest Sports for kids to Play which offers a few options for each age group.
This article is written by Karissa Tunis
For more on this topic, check out the full Sports collection
Before Registering for a New Sport
When deciding on a new sport, start with your child’s focus. Oftentimes there is something that they are already gravitating towards more than others. Keep their age, maturity level and physical abilities in mind when making your selection.
Start by encouraging your child and help peek their interest by taking them to a sporting event. Even if it is just to watch the local high school team play, or a local semi-pro team. The environment can be very exciting, and it can be helpful to see what possibilities are out there if they stick with it. Even just sharing your own sporting interests will be very helpful, and will provide an excellent opportunity for more bonding time.
What to Ask Before Sports Registration
How Much Time is Required? What About Time Need for Registration?
Find out ahead of time what the schedule demands will be. The registration process can even take awhile between sign-ups, try-outs, evaluations, and so on. So ask ahead of time.
Don’t forget to ask about practices. Some coaches require in-person practices a few times per week, or else your child might not receive playing time in the game/competition. Be honest with yourself and your child – are they ready for the added discipline and responsibility that comes along with it? Some coaches even ask the kids to commit to practicing at home for an additional 10-20 minutes per day.
By knowing what time is involved and expected, this will allow you to figure out if you can realistically fit this activity into your family’s daily routine.
How Safe is This Sport?
This one is extremely important! Does your coach take safety seriously? Don’t be embarrassed to ask or assess these questions below. Talk to other parents of kids that are on the team, or that previously played. Watch a practice. Do a little research before sports registration.
Below are some questions you may want to ask depending on the sport:
- Does the coach require that players follow the rules?
- Does the coach and league require the use of proper safety equipment?
- Do players take time to warm up and cool down before and after each practice or event?
- In hot weather, does the coach pay attention to hydration, humidity, and the temperature?
- Are children taught proper movement and body positioning?
- Is the coach attentive to the prevention and recognition of concussions?
Consider the Coaching Style
Attend practices or talk to the coach to determine his or her attitude toward the game and the kids. How much does each child play and how is playing time determined? If a coach consistently yells at the children, or lets only the most skilled players into the game, your child might become discouraged. Beware of a win-at-all-costs attitude. But at the same time, you want someone that will encourage and push your kids in a positive and helpful way.
Every child responds to different personality types. But by doing a little investigating ahead of time, you will hopefully be able to pair your child with someone that will enhance their love for the sport, and not crush their spirit.
Be Honest Before Sports Registration
Lastly, it is important that you have an honest conversation with your child. Nowhere does it say that your child has to play sports. Maybe they enjoy drama, choir, playing instruments, or are really into creating artwork. Some children find their passion at a young age, and others need to try a variety of interests before discovering what they love. But whatever it is, ask yourself and your child these important questions:
- Is my child really enjoying or benefiting from this activity?
- Is it worth the time that we are missing from being at home as a family?
- And is my child handling the demands of their schedule both mentally and physically?
If the answer is yes, then keep it going! If the answer is no, then there is nothing wrong with taking a little break and waiting a few weeks (or even years) before jumping into something else. In fact, you can do a lot at home for free! Check out this article that dives deeper into the advantages of Trading Activities for Play Time.
There is no right or wrong answer on what age your child should be involved with activities. It all depends on your family, the child, and their personal interests. Good Luck!
For more on this topic, check out the full Sports collection
