It’s no secret that kids need exercise. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day for children aged 6 to 17 years old. And what could be better than getting that exercise through sports? Not only do kids get the physical benefits of playing sports, but they can also reap emotional, mental, and social rewards as well. So what type of sport is right for your child?

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Team Sports

Team sports are great for kids because they learn to work together and develop social skills. Kids who play team sports also get to practise communication, problem solving, and decision-making, which can be transferred over into other areas of their life. The most popular sports in this category is probably soccer or basketball, but there are plenty of other team sports to choose from, like baseball, volleyball, lacrosse, and tennis.

Basketball

Basketball is also a great choice for kids who want to stay active and build their coordination. The game requires quick reflexes and the ability to think on your feet, so it’s not only good for physical fitness – it can also help kids develop their brains too.

Lacrosse

Lacrosse is a great sport for kids who want to stay active and have fun. It combines elements of basketball, soccer, and hockey, so it’s a great way for kids to learn different skills from all three sports at once. Plus, lacrosse sticks are easy to find and relatively inexpensive, making the game accessible for most families.

Individual Sports

Individual sports give children the opportunity to challenge themselves and strive for personal growth. They learn to take pride in their achievements and have a sense of accomplishment when they reach goals or surpass expectations. Additionally, individual sports can build confidence as your child will only have himself/herself to compete against each time he/she is out on the field or court. The most popular sports in this category are probably running, swimming, gymnastics, and martial arts.

Swimming

Swimming is a great way for kids to stay active and develop motor skills. It can also help with coordination, strength, and flexibility – all while being fun! Swimming is a safe sport for children of all ages, as long as they’re supervised by an adult. Swim lessons are a great way to start, and can help build confidence in the water.

Gymnastics

Gymnastics is a great way for kids to develop strength, balance, and coordination. It’s also a great way to learn discipline and control of the body while having fun. Classes are usually available at local gymnasiums or in your child’s school district.

Recreational Activities

For those children not interested in competitive sports, recreational activities such as biking, swimming, horseback riding, and dance can provide fitness and fun. These activities can also be great for children with special needs as they may not get the same level of physical activity from traditional sports. The most popular sports in this category are probably biking, yoga, and dance.

Yoga

Yoga is a great way to build strength, flexibility, and balance. It can also help children relax and de-stress after a long day of school or activities. Kids yoga classes make it easy for youngsters to learn the basics and explore their own practice in a safe environment.

No matter what type of sport or activity your child chooses, it’s important to remember that all kids benefit from exercise and play. Taking the time to find an appropriate activity for your child will help ensure he/she gets the most out of the experience. With a little guidance and support from you, your child can lead a healthy and active lifestyle!

Have you decided what type of sport is right for your child?

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