As the back-to-school season is ramping up, so is the upcoming season of youth sports. While it can seem incredibly chaotic and overwhelming to think about your child rushing to practice after a full day of school, the reality is it’s more than likely helping them far more than it is hurting them.
Why do we say that? There are several reasons why our Tampa therapists believe putting your child on a sports team can be beneficial to their mental well-being, which we will explain, however, we also believe it can be good for the parents and your relationship with your child.
The Positives
We already know and understand that organized youth sports are a good way for kids to keep up their physical health by staying active and improving their coordination and balance. However, there are some pretty great mental health benefits too!
- Sports can be a positive outlet if your child is struggling with behavioral issues. When children are moving and exercising, they improve their mood and reduce stress.
- Sports can help kids learn how to solve new and difficult tasks and possibly learn to handle stress better.
- Participating in sports can instill a strong work ethic in your child by teaching them to persevere through challenges and dedicate time to practice. Joining a sports team can help build relationships and improve a child’s desire to participate in other social activities by creating a sense of community and belonging It can also help a child learn accountability. Learning that being on a team, means everyone needs to show up and pull their weight
- Sports can help build self-confidence. Overcoming an obstacle within the sport, dedicating the time to practice, and learning how to do something they couldn’t do before can help a child improve their self-esteem.
- Joining a sports team, especially one that requires a lot of time and dedication, can allow you some “special, extra time” with your child. Maybe it’s the car ride to and from practice, or to the games, or the time you spend practicing at home in your own backyard. We encourage you to use this time and newfound interest as a way to bond.
Keeping Perspective
While we believe encouraging your child to play youth sports is beneficial for them, our Tampa therapists also understand as a parent you may have some concerns. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Help your child understand that their self-worth isn’t tied to winning or losing. While winning is awesome, the outcome of a game is not the most important thing. Their effort and attitude need to top the list and this is especially important on days when they don’t feel great about how they played.
- Keep an eye on their coach. Now, we aren’t suggesting you hover over the coach and question them on every little thing that they say or do, however, we are suggesting that you pay attention to how your child’s coach is making them feel. A good coach can do wonders for a child, however a bad coach can do a lot of damage.
- Keep your own expectations in check. Avoid placing unnecessary pressure on your child. Very few athletes get college scholarships or become the next Kobe Bryant or Peyton Manning. Remember that your child is participating in sports not to impress people, or receive awards and scholarships, but for their own fun and well-being.
Try to Keep In Mind…
Keep in mind that sports, especially youth sports, are meant to be fun and help your child discover a little more about who they are and what they enjoy doing. When these sports or hobbies are no longer fun or are causing harm to your kids, it’s time to work together and figure out what needs to be adjusted or even to find something else they may enjoy doing better. Your child’s mental and physical health is always the most important thing.
Work with Our Tampa Therapists
At Rice Psychology Group we understand that sometimes you may need a little outside help to better understand what your child needs. Our team of licensed psychologists and Tampa therapists are ready to work with your family and help you create a plan that works for you. Contact us today to schedule your free, 10-minute consultation.
