While it is true that most kids aren’t as talented as LeBron James or Caitlyn Clark, there are still many important things that every kid can do while competing in youth sports. Even though your son might not ever be able to dunk, he can attend every practice with a healthy, positive attitude. Maybe your daughter will never become a college or professional softball player, but she can hustle every time she attends practices and games. Sadly, many wonderful work habits and life skills get overlooked when it comes to youth sports, especially when we only focus on the best players and/or wins on the scoreboard. In fact, many of the skills kids learn in youth sports are athletic transferable skills, meaning that kids learn the skill in sports (i.e. how to develop resiliency), then use the skill to help in other areas of life (i.e. applying resiliency learned in sports to get a good grade in a tough class at school). This week I delve into the things that every kid involved in youth sports can do, and by doing so will dramatically improve their sport skills — as well as have more fun playing sports.
Things every kid can do in youth sports
While not always easy to do, the following list are behaviors that every kid can do to help his or her team:
- Attitude. Help kids understand that their attitude is a choice, so choose wisely! In fact, when parents model a positive attitude their kids often follow, so role model appropriately!
- Hustle. Similar to attitude, you don’t need to be a skilled athlete to run on to the field, run out every play, and run off the field when it’s time to switch up.
- High energy. Bringing enthusiasm to a team by means of high-5’s, praise for teammates, and picking up players who are down is something every kid can do, and will ultimately contribute to improved team culture.
- Time management. Help your child learn how to keep track of his or her schedule, including the time needed to prepare for practices and games. With your guidance, your kids can quickly learn the importance of time management and making efficient use of their time.
- Helpful to teammates. Here again, even if your child is not on the field he or she can help keep teammates focused and energized.
- Preparation. All kids can learn to take an inventory of the things they need ready for every practice and game, including having equipment ready, water, their uniform, etc.
- Passionate to succeed. All kids can set future goals that interest them, and build the steps needed to reach those goals.
- Responsible work ethic. Teaching kids the value of following instructions, giving their best effort, and exercising sportsmanship and a strong work ethic are invaluable life skills.
Final thoughts
It’s easy for kids to feel intimidated and overwhelmed watching the more skilled kids excel in sports, sometimes leaving them to feel as though their own efforts don’t really matter. The truth, however, is that there are many things kids can do every time they go out to compete, and by being committed to playing hard they will increase their chances for future on-field success. Remind kids about the importance of things like attitude, hustle, and being helpful to teammates — not only do these things help with sports, but they also help with life success.
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