Kids nowadays are getting increasingly hooked to video games and PSPs and the television simply adds on to the woes of the parents. There’s a constant deviation from physical activities amongst the kids leaving parents worried. As news about obesity amongst kids rises as one of the biggest plagues to haunt children, parents watch out for ways and opportunities to get their children involved in some sports activity.
Research has shown that playing a particular sport has several other benefits for kids as well apart from the usual health benefits. Not only do sports keep kids active, it helps them concentrate better, improves their social skills and helps them learn and employ sportsmanship. However, in order to develop a childs involvement in a particular sport it is imperative that you first analyzes the kids age, size, ability, general interest and skills. Don’t assume all kids are natural athletes and it’s also essential that we first be aware of the reason behind their dislike for sports.
Sports can be a turn-off for kids for a multitude of reasons. One of the biggest factors that keeps kids from taking up a specific sport is that they’re still in a phase when they’re developing their basic skills. sport betting horse racing
Children below six to seven years of age have shorter attention spans and do not have the capacity to grasp the intricacies of the rules that are required to play organized sports. When children reach this age they are able to understand the sport better and require to practice in order to get a hang of the game. The hits and misses while learning how to play can result in frustration and an ensuing disinterest.
It also has been noted that some kids are reluctant to play team sports as they seem to be too competitive for the kids. Sports such as football, baseball are rigorous and centered on winning which can unnerve them. Maintaining an optimistic environment ensures that the children remain motivated and interested.
Occasionally children are still undecided upon the sport of their choice. They could be more at ease playing individual sports rather than team sports. It is advisable to let the child explore his / her interests and choose his own. Self consciousness can also be another very significant deterrent. Physical attributes play a critical part in this as smaller kids tend to feel more intimidated. It’s very important so as to channelize the childs energies in the right direction and keep them from getting frustrated.
Some of the best sports for getting kids involved in are basketball, baseball, football, ice hockey and soccer amongst team sports and gymnastics, horse riding, skating and soccer amongst individual sports. Parents must realize that imposing a particular sporting activity upon a child is not going to help in developing the childs affinity for the game.
As soon as the child discovers his or her own interest, they will find their own league. Infact, the emphasis should be on kids getting enough physical activity by means of any exercise, be it sports or free play. This initial patience when exercised can lead to long term benefits by helping your son or daughter develop his / her fascination with a sport that could last a lifetime.
