Motivating Your Child to Exercise
The following information is provided by Children’s Hospital Boston.
Playing sports not only helps your child stay fit, but can also help them develop self-esteem, coordination, and social skills. But some kids either aren’t natural athletes or don’t enjoy playing sports. What then?
Reasons your child may not want to try a sport:
Still Developing Basic Skills
If your child hasn’t had much practice in a specific sport, it may take awhile to learn the necessary skills. Trying and failing, especially in a game situation, might frustrate your child.
What You Can Do
Practicing with your child at home gives them the opportunity to improve their skills in a safe environment.
The Team is Too Competitive
A child who is just learning a sport may buckle under the added pressure of a very competitive coach or a league that puts too much emphasis on winning.
What You Can Do
Learn more about a sports program before you enroll your child. Look for less competitive alternatives, such as the YMCA or summer camps.
Fear of Failure
If your child isn’t a natural athlete, or is shy, they might be uncomfortable with the pressure of being on a team or may worry about letting parents, coaches, or teammates down.
What You Can Do
Keep expectations realistic and let your child know the goal is to be fit and have fun.
Finding the Right Fit
Some kids haven’t found the right team sport or prefer sports that focus on individual performance.
What You Can Do
Be open to your child’s interests in other sports or activities. That can be tough if, for instance, you were a star basketball player. But by exploring other options, your child has the chance to find an activity they truly enjoy and to develop their own identity.
Physical Challenges
Different kids mature at different rates, so it’s common for there to be a wide range of heights, weights, and athletic abilities among kids the same age. Your child may be afraid of getting injured, or worried they can’t keep up.
What You Can Do
Give some honest thought to your child’s abilities and temperament, and find an activity that is a good match. With good communication, you may be able to address your child’s concerns. Other issues may naturally fade as your child grows. If you can understand what your child is going through and provide a supportive environment, you can help your child succeed in whatever activity he or she chooses.
Exercise Safety for Kids
For more information about exercise safety for your child, please visit Children’s Hospital Boston or see:
Above content provided by Children’s Hospital Boston in partnership with Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. For advice about your medical care, consult your doctor.
Posted May 2009
