at what age did most of you start your kids off in a sport. My ds is 3 and will be 4 next Feb. and I am thinking of signing him up for soccer at this time. Just wondering what age most parents start. thanks
I think 4 is a great age. They don't really understand the rules, but learn how to play alongside other kids their age, and gives them a chance to make some friends at the same time. My son turned 4 in the spring and joined soccer in the spring. He was a little hesitant at first but by the end of the season he was making goals!:-D
GCAA. Fall registration is over, they start this week. But if you go to their website, www.gcaasports.com you'll see all their information and other sports they have.
I think if the child is interested, four is a great age. My son started playing soccer at four (GCAA) and has never stopped! At this stage of the game (HS and traveling team) it's very intense and competitive. At four the children would score a goal in the wrong goal and still be thrilled! It is so relaxing and adorable to watch.
Gotta give a ++ to the Local YMCA kiddo's sports too. We have enjoyed the McGees League for Soccer & T-Ball. The one night a week & no SAT. games is RIGHT for us. DS is 4.75 y/o as he told me yesterday! LOL! :lol:
If a child is interested, fine...but I'm not one for pushing "sports" on my child. Mine had a virus that we had gone to a local pediatrician about and of course they change doctors like they do their own underwear!! Anyway, we get this "non-local" doctor who ignores the virus and proceeds to test strength and coordination!!! Then asked what sports were we involved with. Our child's records indicated that a known medical condition (that they misdiagnosed BTW) existed and creates sensitivity to outside activities. We said we weren't playing organized sports right now and the doc looked at us like we were abusing our kid!! Infuriated me after that exam when we have done everything for our kid and shower him with love and compassion. My child, along with God, is the nucleus of my world. My child is normal and plays outdoors, but we limit that time. Also, there are other interests too. Other hobbies that may be more stimulating than playing sports. Younger than 5 years old IMO is too young to persuade a child's interests. If they are interested in T-ball, go for it. Otherwise, wait and see.
I partially agree with that. I don't think a child should be "pushed" into anything, but you don't want your children to be lazy and play video games either. Because of the obesity epidemic in our country, I think it's best to at least give them an opportunity. I have 3 boys, and they are definitely boys...love all that outdoors stuff. I was raised by a family that never participated or encouraged me to participate in sports, and all my family is overweight. I want my sons to be healthy. I'm sure when they get older it will be easier to see what sports they do and don't like, and maybe it will be none of the above. But I definitely think it's fine to give them that opportunity!
4 is cool if they are interested. 3 is too young....IMO..... but nothing like getting them out there for the exercise and making friends if not for anything else.... and see where it takes you...... and offer them healthy snacks and water and Gatorade,,,, too make overweight young children out there. Nothing like starting them out heart healthy early....
I noticed your location was Archer Lodge. You can play at age 4 there in the spring and with the YMCA. My daughter turns 4 in Dec. and we were planning on signing her up there in the spring, My sone played last year in the spring but he might play Johnston United in the spring this year b/c he is old enough now.
Well, that is true too, they do have an age cut-off and start up., have to check with each area and see what their requirements are....
4 was when I planned on letting him start, and by no means would I force him to play, he just has so much energy that I think it would be great in helping him deal with it. So I am looking for alternatives, he is all boy and loves being outside and doing things with his hands and so forth. So I am going to try it, if he hates it then fine I will not push the issue. Thanks for all the comments!
One of the biggest problems I have with sports this time of year is the excessive temperatures outdoors. No young child should be out pushing themselves too much in 100 degree weather. I'm more of an advocate for indoor activities that promote exercise now. Plus, often times you'll find fall league little league in some area if baseball is your thing.
Its not really my thing but it may be his, who knows what sports he will like, I have noticed that he likes to watch football on TV so that might be what he ends up playing. Lord knows he is built for it