How to motivate children in sports?

Lack of motivation in children is one of the most frustrating issues parents face. Kids can give up playing sports easily without the proper motivation and encouragement. They deal with a lot of stress on the field trying to please the fans, the coach and, most of all, their parents. Peer pressure can also play a factor if they start to develop friendships with other kids who don't play sports and would rather be at home on video games.

• Let your child choose a sport he or she enjoys. It's easier for children to be motivated when they're enjoying the sport.

• Watch Games With Your Child Watching sports with your child is not only a great way to spend some quality time together, but it also helps them to develop positive role models. Watching professionals play sports both live and on TV is a great way to get them excited about playing sport themselves.

• Find Out What Sports Their Friends Are Playing. This is an easy one. Your kid is going to be much more motivated to play the same sports as their friends from school or the neighbourhood.

• Be positive, everyone can have an off day. Do not be hard on them and show them how upset you are.

• Show them how proud you are. Winning, of course, is always good, but if they did all that they could do, that is enough.

• Get involved, show your children that you care about what they do. Whatever skills they need to practice, whether it be kicking, hitting, throwing or something else, work with them in a fun manner.

• Remember, don’t specialize too early. There is no such thing as a champion 10 year old.