Opinions: Should I push my kids to play organized sports or let them choose activities? | DadHQ

Forums Weekend MissionsOpinions: Should I push my kids to play organized sports or let them choose activities?

Opinions: Should I push my kids to play organized sports or let them choose activities?

Dec 29·1 min read

This is probably debated a million times but I'm curious about this community's take. My kids are 9 and 11 and I keep getting pressured to sign them up for team sports because "that's what kids do." They're more interested in individual stuff - skateboarding, rock climbing, art classes. Should I be pushing them toward sports or is it okay that they're just... not into that? Feel like other parents judge me for not having them on soccer teams or whatever.

5 comments99 views

Comments(5)

BByron S.RegularDec 29

What about just being outside and active without the organized part? Like hiking, biking, pool days. My kids get plenty of exercise and I'm not driving to games every weekend.

CChris F.RegularDec 31

Depends on the kid honestly. My 9yo needed the structure and friendships from baseball to come out of his shell. My 7yo is more of a homebody and does way better with swimming lessons he actually wants.

SSteve H.RegularDec 31

My take: offer them 2-3 options and let them pick one. That way you're not just letting them sit inside all day but you're also respecting their preferences. Best of both worlds.

HHank C.RegularDec 30

Push them to TRY something but don't make them stick with it if they hate it. I made my kid do one season of everything before deciding. That was fair.

MMike R.RegularDec 31

I went the forcing organized sports route with my oldest and honestly regret it. He hated soccer but I kept pushing. Now at 11 he actually loves rock climbing because HE picked it. I'd say let them explore a few things at 9 but don't force it.