Stage Fright
Kids who aren't natural athletes or are a little shy might be uncomfortable with
the pressure of being on a team. More self-conscious kids also might worry about letting
their parents, coaches, or teammates down. This is especially true if a child is still
working on basic skills and if the league is very competitive.
What you can do: Keep your expectations realistic — most
kids don't become Olympic medalists or get sports scholarships. Let your child know
the goal is to be fit and have fun. If the coach or league doesn't agree, it's probably
time to look for something new.
Still Shopping for a Sport
Some kids haven't found the right sport. Maybe a child who doesn't have the hand-eye
coordination for baseball has the drive and the build to be a swimmer, a runner, or
a cyclist. The idea of an individual sport also can be more appealing to some kids
who like to go it alone.
What you can do: Be open to your child's interests in other sports
or activities. That can be tough if, for instance, you just loved basketball and wanted
to continue the legacy. But by exploring other options, you give your child a chance
to get invested in something he or she truly enjoys.
Other Barriers
Different kids mature at different rates, so expect a wide range of heights, weights,
and athletic abilities among kids of the same age group. A child who's much bigger
or smaller than other kids of the same age — or less coordinated or not as strong
— may feel self-conscious and uncomfortable competing with them.
Kids also might be afraid of getting injured or worried that they can't keep up.
Kids who are overweight might be reluctant to participate in a sport, for example,
while a child with asthma might feel more comfortable with sports that require short
outputs of energy, like baseball, football, gymnastics, golf, and shorter track and
field events.
What you can do: Give some honest thought to your child's strengths,
abilities, and temperament, and find an activity that might be a good match. Some
kids are afraid of the ball, so they don't like softball or volleyball but may enjoy
an activity like running. If your child is overweight, he or she might lack the endurance
to run, but might enjoy a sport like swimming. A child who's too small for the basketball
team may enjoy gymnastics or wrestling.
Remember that some kids will prefer sports that focus on individual performance
rather than teamwork. The goal is to prevent your child from feeling frustrated, wanting
to quit, and being turned off from sports and physical activity altogether.
Try to address your child's concerns. By being understanding and providing a supportive
environment, you'll help foster success in whatever activity your child chooses.