Kids are by nature curious, and chances are they will try a number of activities, including sports, before they settle on the one activity they like and enjoy. Motivating children to play a sport can be tricky, especially if they're unsure of whether they like the sport in the first place. Rather than forcing them to attend practices they're not interested in, find where their passions lie, and go from there.
Step 1
Let your child choose a sport he enjoys. Motivation is closely related to doing something you enjoy, so ask your youngster what he wants to do. If he's not sure, suggest sports that relate to the type of activity he enjoys doing. If he likes the water, for example, swimming might be a good idea. Look at his overall preferences: whether he prefers to be outdoors or indoors and whether he's more interested in games of strength, stamina or group play.
Step 2
Help your child become excited about the sport. Rather than enrolling her directly in a league or class, take her to see others play, join in a game or visit a sports camp. Seeing others excited about the game can be a great motivator.
Step 3
Celebrate the playing rather than the winning. While winning or being first is great, it's more important that you focus on applauding your child's progress and dedication, even if he's still learning and failing in the process. It's easier to stay motivated when you know that your efforts are appreciated.
Step 4
Lead by example. Play sports with your child and make the game enjoyable. If you've played a sport yourself, share stories of games, victories and people involved in the sport. Don't make it about bragging, as this might actually make the child feel inferior. Instead, focus on how fun and inspiring playing was.
