The number of children with weight problems has doubled in the last twenty years, and this could be down to them not doing enough physical exercise. Statistics also show that among six year olds, one in ten is classed as obese.
For this reason, it is important for children to be encouraged to take part in sport.
Why Do Kids Quit Sport?
No Longer Fun
Statistics show that 90% of children take part in sports because it is fun. However, once the initial excitement starts to wear off, many children find the sports no longer fun and so don’t have the interest to take part in them anymore.
Scrutiny from Elders
Research shows that 90% of children would rather play on a losing team than be sat on the side line for a winning team. Children at young ages need to be able to play and have fun. Increased pressure from parents and teachers to perform well can take the fun out of the sport. Scared to make an error, children can feel pressured and will feel that they are being pushed into needing to perform perfectly.
Uninvolved
Sometimes children can feel like they aren’t being involved in sports by peers. This can come from not being picked first for a team, or by being forced out of playing due to other individuals.
What Can We Do to Ensure They Don’t Quit?
Make it Fun
Do this by getting all of the children on board with the sport and get them to become involved with ideas for new activities or warm up games.
Encourage
Encourage children to be involved and reassure them that taking part is the main thing, and that they should enjoy playing sports. Encourage them to learn new skills and improve on their weaker points, but always reassure them that you are making them proud and that they are doing a good job.
Ensure Inclusiveness
Mix up sessions and who plays where. Ensure that everyone is treated equally and ensure they are allowed to develop at their own speed.
Active Superstars provide fun sporting activities for children which will keep them interested and will ensure that they have fun. For more information call Active Superstars today on 0121 222 5464 or email info@activesuperstars.co.uk
