You can certainly encourage your child to pick up a bat or soccer ball and head to a local field for a pick-up game with friends. Organized sports, however, provide more structure and more of a promise of guaranteed exercise on a daily basis. Furthermore, they help foster new friendships amongst youths.
Soccer
Individuals who want to strengthen their skills during the off season should register with one of Ohio's camp programs. Youths who want to train to be a goalkeeper in a top league take lessons at the Elite Goalkeeper Soccer Academy. Younger players between the ages of 5 and 9 learn the basic steps of soccer at the Fundamental Soccer Camps. Individuals between 5 and 19 years old can sign up for a team in the Ohio South Youth Soccer Association.
Basketball
Slam dunk the ball on the court of one of Ohio's youth basketball leagues. Every year, the state hosts the Ohio Youth Basketball State Championships, where more than 250 boys and girls teams from the fourth through eleventh grades compete for the top spot. Enroll little ones in the Headstart Hoopsters Basketball League, which is especially designed for children in first, second and third grade. Check out the Tucker Neale's, The Edge and the Northeast Ohio leagues for more options.
Gymnastics
Engage in somersaults, twists and bends at one of the gymnastics facilities in Ohio. As early as age 3, students can begin taking classes at the Gymnastics of Ohio facility. In 2010, some of the gymnasts were able to compete in the AAU National Gymnastics Championships. Buckeye Gymnastics accommodates all levels of gymnasts, and also has programs for special needs children. Four competitive teams are available as well.
Swimming
Let your child jump into the pool for a refreshing bit of exercise, or enroll him in a class so he can learn the basic skills of swimming and staying safe in the water. Starting at the age of six months, parents participate with their children in the swimming courses. By the age of 3, children who are comfortable being away from their parents are invited to the Preschool Aquatics Level 1 program.
Baseball
With hundreds of baseball teams, the possibilities are nearly endless for youths seeking a team. Youth leagues range from the 11 and under group to the 18 and under group for tournaments, which include the North Coast Classic, Teams Sports Nations Baseball State Qualifier and the Dusty Diamonds Classic. For regular-season games, check out the Medina League that serves individuals from the farm level all the way up to all-star teams.
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