4 Creative Ways to Motivate Your Kid to Play Sports
Here’s an interesting fact: The percentage of kids who play sports in an organized league is down from 45% to 38%.
While that might not seem like such a big deal, any parent who has an energetic child can tell you what a great outlet sports can be. On a similar note, it’s not always easy to convince your kids to get outside and be active.
However, you have more influence than you may suspect. Keep reading to learn about some easy ways that you can motivate your kids to play sports.
1. Play With Them
As a parent, you are your child’s most important teacher. And science illustrates that kids often learn best through play. What’s more, the same study found that allowing your kid(s) to lead your sports practice together is a good way to instill leadership values and promote brain development.
You’re busy. We get it. But you’ll never get this time back with your kids, so spend it wisely, and don’t be afraid to shirk some Netflix time to play together.
2. Try Different Sports
Kids are notorious for their hot and cold attitudes toward hobbies. It’s good to encourage perseverance, but it’s as important to remember that not every sport is the right fit for every kid.
Let your kids explore a variety of different activities and see which ones they like the most. Chances are you’ll find at least one activity that your kids are happy to stick with.
3. Show Them How the Pros Play
It’s one thing to watch other kids play. It’s another to grab some NBA tickets and experience the joy and excitement that comes with seeing a pro sports league live.
Treat your kids to an evening they’ll never forget by taking them to a pro game. Not only will it reignite their passion for play, but it’s a fun bonding experience that you’ll never forget.
4. Don’t Be an Annoying Sports Parent
That might seem a little harsh, but we all know the exact types of parents we’re talking about here. The kind of parent who yells at the ref when their kid doesn’t get to play or belittles someone for making a mistake.
Acting this way is a surefire way to make sure your kids never want to play sports…or go out in public with you, in general.
Stay calm, cool, and collected, no matter how you’re really feeling. You’re an example to your kids, after all, so be a good one.
Motivate Your Kids to Play Sports and Win Big
It’s not always easy to get your kids to stay active. But encouraging them to play sports is a fun way to teach all sorts of great life lessons ranging from teamwork and cooperation to good sportsmanship and handling defeat.
So if you’re having trouble getting your kids interested in sports, remember to keep these tips in mind! They might help more than you think.
And if you’re looking for more advice on how to keep your little ones active, be sure to read the other content on our health and fitness blog!