How to Help Your Child Choose a Sport

How to Help Your Child Choose a Sport

Helping your child choose a sport

There’s a frenzy of activity as the ramp-up to the school year descends on families: school supplies, clothing, the perfect shoe, haircuts. All those details for the first day of school. But it’s not just the subjects your kids will be studying this year that are important; it’s the sports your children may want to pursue, that will impact their personality, and possibly even their health, for life.

In helping your child discover what sport he or she is interested in, keep these factors in mind:

Enthusiasm

If your son or daughter already has an interest in a particular sport, if he or she likes to watch it on TV or even live, this is a good first step. Enthusiasm and interest will go a long way toward making the sport a good fit for your child.

Personality

There are the traditional team sports like football, basketball, volleyball and soccer, but individual sports may appeal more to your child, depending on his or her personality and development. Sports like swimming, gymnastics, track, golf or tennis may allow your child to shine individually.

Social Skills

Commensurate with personality, his or her social skill development should be taken into account. Sports are a great way for shy and retiring kids to come out of their shells a bit, but a competitive atmosphere may be daunting. Sports can help kids build team building skills and confidence in their abilities.

Body Type

Children who are short and stocky may excel at football more readily than at basketball. Tall and lanky kids might do better in basketball or track. This isn’t a hard and fast rule, but typically kids whose body type is conducive to the sport will meet earlier success, making the experience a positive one.

Time and Financial Commitment

If the practice schedule is grueling it may put too heavy a burden on the child. If parents have work or other weekend commitments that conflict with games, that sport may not be the best fit. Even the cost of equipment must be factored in when deciding which sport or sports your child wants to pursue.

Physical Health

All children should have an examination by a doctor and be given the “OK” to play whatever sport they choose. Sometimes unknown conditions can be aggravated by a particular sport, or a child may be more at risk of injury because of his or her physical development. So whatever sport your child chooses, be sure to get the all clear from a qualified health care professional before your child gets started.

Even in youth sports, injuries can occur. Watch your child carefully, as he or she may not want to miss practice or let team members down by being sidelined with an injury. If you notice signs of tingling, numbness or pain in your child’s hands, fingers, wrists, elbow or shoulder, contact Dr. Rehman for a full evaluation of the condition before you let your child continue. Many sports-related injuries are treatable with minimally invasive techniques, but long-term and permanent damage can occur if injuries are left untreated, especially in children who are still developing.

If anyone in your family is struggling with pain or discomfort, reach out to Dr. Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and an individualized program to help achieve full recovery, range of motion and strength in the affected area.