Athletics are great for children, but you can't force it on them, and you have to let them find the types of athletic activities that they are comfortable with. Some kids enjoy the competitive aspect of sports, but some kids don't. For the kids who don't like the competition, it's better to find dance classes, bike riding, karate (sometimes) and things like that. They get the idea of movement, of using their bodies, etc., but without being judged and rated directly against their peers.

Even in competitive sports, there are different ways to get your child exposed. For example, my daughter was afraid to play soccer. She didn't like the noise and mayhem of a bunch of kids converging on a soccer ball. But a few years after quitting soccer, she decided to play softball, and she loves it. In softball, things are much more organized. You get a specific position to play in the field, and when the ball comes near to you, then you try to catch it. And you get a turn at bat, and you know exactly what to do when you hit the ball. Plus, you're not fighting others for possession of the ball (most of the time!). So softball works for my daughter in ways that fast-paced, free-form games didn't.

Whichever sports you and your child choose, it's important that you as a parent be supportive. Don't criticize, don't yell, don't interfere with the coach. These things will definitely make your kid want to quit, and it will show an ugly side of you.

Finally, if it's possible to let your kids run around with other kids and making up games, that's the best of all. I know that kind of thing has mostly disappeared in suburban America - where every kid is overprotected and overscheduled - but I've seen that kids can manage just fine by themselves, if given half a chance.

Learn more about this author, B. B. James.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Children and athletics?
We want to hear your view. Write now!