With obesity a growing epidemic among youngsters, it's more important than ever to get kids up and moving. But kids are no different than adults when it comes to exercise. If you don't keep things fun, they will soon lose interest. There is no one ideal sport. Some kids relish team sports, while others excel in individual athletics. Fortunately, there are many sports from which to choose.
Team Sports
For kids who enjoy competition and parents who don't mind keeping to a schedule, there are plenty of team sports. As many a soccer mom knows, soccer cleats and shin guards are popping up everywhere. The Kids First Soccer website says the sport has been the fastest growing team sport for boys and girls in recent years. Soccer classes and leagues can be found through local parks, schools and community organizations. Children can begin playing at a very young age and continue for life. Basketball, T-ball, softball, baseball and football are time-honored favorites, and lacrosse and field hockey are growing in popularity in many areas. If you want to be part of a team, plan on at least one practice and one game per week during the season. Travel clubs may require much larger time and financial commitments.
Ice Sports
If you live in some northern states, learning to play hockey is practically a rite of passage. In the south, you may have trouble even finding a rink. Hockey can be a lot of fun, but it tends to be a more expensive sport for kids. The price of hockey equipment and ice time rental can make the sport not as much fun for parents. Ice skating is another sport that can be fun, and no team is required. Lessons are offered at most rinks and skates can be rented. Kids can decide to skate competitively or just for fun.
Water Sports
Swimming is a fun sport for kids, and learning to be safe in and around water can save a life. Many kids enjoy the competition that comes with being a member of a swim team. Many pools and swimming organizations offer diving lessons and sponsor diving competitions, too. Of course, just playing Marco Polo in the pool can also be a blast.
Backyard Sports
You don't have to leave your yard to find fun sports for the kids. Bring out a hula hoop or jump rope, draw a hopscotch game, play some tag or a little hide-and-seek. Kids might enjoy a game of volleyball or badminton. The Activities for Kids website also suggests having some fun with a limbo contest or bringing out a parachute and letting kids crawl under and over it and bounce balls on toss balls on top of it.
Individual Sports
Some sports emphasize individual performance, even though your child may be part of a team. Gymnasts earn individual honors but also contribute to an overall team score. Kids who enjoy tennis can play as singles or part of a doubles team.
