Youth Sports: Finding Balance

Sports are a great way for kids to learn life lessons. But they shouldn’t become the most important thing in your child’s life. Behaviors that might indicate your child is “overcommitted” to sports include poor school performance, fatigue and not being excited about going to practice or a game. As a parent, you have to help your child find the right balance that is healthy and beneficial.

• Work with your child to set goals that he or she can achieve.
• Help him or her stay focused on getting better and having fun.
• Encourage fair play and a positive attitude, whether your child’s team is winning or losing.
• If your child talks about quitting the team, encourage him or her to complete a season before making a final decision.