Participation in organized sports can have many benefits for children by not only increasing their physical activity, health, and well being, but by also helping develop social skills.

The Physical Benefits

Physical education and organized sports offer many benefits, including, development of motor skills needed for enjoyable participation in physical activities; promotion of physical fitness; increased energy expenditure; and promotion of positive attitudes toward an active lifestyle.

In addition, regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of many adult health problems, including diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Starting a physical activity regimen at a young age, hopefully, will lead to the adoption of an active lifestyle as an adult.

The Psychological Benefits

Children that play sports actually do better in school and have enhanced social skills. Sports also help prevent drug and alcohol abuse, and children that participate in sports are less likely to smart smoking and, if they do smoke, are more likely to quit. There also is evidence that supports the idea that physical education may enhance academic performance, self-concept, and mental health.

Ideas to Help Your Child Become More Active.

Current recommendations state that children and adults should strive for at least 30 minutes daily of moderate intensity physical activity

· Make it fun. If it is not fun for the children, they will grow bored, and this new lifestyle will become boring to them. Give them some choices to make and let them decide the activity that interests them the most.

· Choose age appropriate activities.

· Establish a regular schedule for exercise. Soon, this will become second nature to them.

· Get involved and be a good role model. If you make fitness a priority in your life, they will learn to make it a priority in theirs. Join a local gym together. Many gyms have children's classes in several different areas, from swimming, tennis, basketball, racquetball, among many others. Make this a family event.

Regardless of any future goals or prospects, playing sports should be an enjoyable experience for both children and parents. Fortunately for parents, sports offer so much more than competition, and they can be assured knowing their time and investments will most certainly foster lifelong rewards.