Youth sports can result in positive physical, social, psychological and academic benefits. The parents, teachers, and coaches also have a factor in these benefits. Children need to have the right mentality and motivation for playing the sport. The "win at all costs" attitude can lead to negative results on the child. The parents should be a big part of their child's attitude for sports.
Purpose
"Go out there and just have fun" is an old saying used in every sport. This saying could not be any more true. A child must be able to enjoy the sport or negative attitudes of social and psychological effects can occur. This can eventually lead to academic decline if the child feels like a failure with sports. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry says that parents should be involved, attend some games, understand the sport, provide emotional support and feedback, and have real expectations. Trying to get a child to live up to unrealistic standards may lead to disappointment. Not everyone is born with the motor skills to hit a baseball. Do not encourage giving up as an option but try to understand your child's limitations. A parent should not force a child into a sport he or she is not interested in.
Psychological Benefits
A study from the Online Journal of Sports Psychology suggests that the goal of youth sports is to encourage intrinsic motivation for children. This can promote a feeling of competence, decision-making skills, and self regulation. Children benefit by building increased confidence and self-esteem, a healthier body image and significant experiences of competency and success.
Academic
Studies from Active Learning Research have found that physically active children tend to perform better academically. Physically active children are 20 percent more likely to receive an "A" for math and English in school. Five controlled studies also found that physical education should not replace classroom time.
Physical
In 2008 the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that between 16 percent and 33 percent of children and teens are obese. Youth sports can directly affect weight and body fat control. Sports also lead to more regular physical activity. The psychological benefits also lead to better decision making regarding eating habits. These eating habits are decisions that also can affect their health in the future. Many physically active adults today were once active children who played various team and individual sports.
Considerations
The same positive psychological benefits can easily be negative effects on children. Some children do not understand how to deal with failure. As mentioned, parents need to be a big part of youth sports. The coach may not have the type of attitude that the parents desire for positive results. The more involved the parents are, the greater it can benefit the children. Maintain a balance of academics, sports and physical activity. Understand that there is always a physical risk when playing sports. Injuries can occur and be sure to see a doctor prior to playing sports. Most organized sports have a required physical from a physician.
