The Harm of starting too young:
If you start too young you can burnout young.
Kids need to learn to just play - the structure too early leads them to not be able to play.
Kids in sports too early can end up inactive as adults.
When kids play - they play within their own parameters, when they are listening to a coach, they tend to follow orders even if they're not ready.
Age Appropriate Sports
Ages 2-3 Years:
Needs: basic movements - running, catching, jumping; too young for most types of structure play
Try:
- Rybbubg and walking, in a yard or playground
- Swinging on a yard or playground set
- Supervised water play
- Toddler gymnastics classes led by professionals
- Tumbling
Ages 4 to 6:
Needs: ready for more coordination of movements as well as more structured activity and play
Try:
- Dancine
- Games such as hopscotch or tag
- Jumping rope
- Playing catch with lightweight ball
- Riding a tricycle or a bike with training wheels
Ages 7 to 10:
Needs: After age 6, children's motor skills and sense of safety improve. Your child may also be ready for team sports.
Try:
- Baseball
- Gymnastics
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Biking
Age 10 and up:
- Carefully supervised weight training
- Organized team sports
- Rowing
- Running and track and field events
- Softball
When it comes to organized sports, make sure your child really wants to play. Never force a child to participate or join a team. Also consider your child's schedule. Children who are already signed up for music lessons and the school play may feel overwhelmed if athletics are added to the mix.