10 tips for non-sporty parents
If you’re like me and sports haven’t played a major role in your life, you might be having challenges figuring out how to raise active kids. Encouraging sports doesn’t always come naturally to a lot of us who are “rather curl up on the couch with a book” types, but when asked if we want our kids to be active for life, of course, the answer is an emphatic yes! So, here are my top tips for non-sporty parents to get you and your kids started down the road to physical literacy.
1. You’re probably sportier than you think
Do you walk, do yoga, or garden? Can you remember what activities you enjoyed as a kid? Even if you weren’t a team-sports person, chances are that you liked something—maybe dance, karate, swimming, wall ball, or skipping?
2. See it as a growth opportunity
Maybe you’ve looked at yourself one way all your life, but it’s never too late to change your own perceptions.
3. Introduce them to lots of different activities
Something’s got to stick! Your kids may or may not gravitate to team sports, especially when they’re little, but you can help them find an activity they like that will give them confidence to try more and more.
4. Encourage their interests
Sometimes catching the wave of enthusiasm can be a tricky manoeuvre. Pay close attention and be ready to jump in when they perk up at a certain activity, sport, or game.
5. Read kids’ books about sports or watch kids’ movies about sports
Do you have a little reader? Find some sports-themed books to stir their interest. And check out our list of 10 sports movies to watch with kids.
6. Appoint someone as your kids’ “sports godparent”
Do you have a friend or family member that loves to toss the ball around or shoot hoops? Ask them to spend some time with your children. They’ll all probably end up having a blast!
7. Start a group of like-minded non-sporty parents
You might be surprised how many of your friends feel the same way you do. Make a date with another family to go bowling, skating, or for a group hike.
8. Make a game out of it!
Have all your family members earn physical-activity points—for example, 10 points for walking to school, 15 points for biking, 20 points for dance class, 20 points for Mom’s spin class. Then reward the family with a group outing somewhere fun on the weekend if your family achieved the goal.
9. Set a good example
Spend some time each day walking, biking, or doing whatever activity you like to do. Just focus on being active and let your kids see you doing it.
10. Don’t stress about it
Physical activity is about having fun and being healthy. Don’t let this become another item on your “ways I’m failing as a parent” list.
And remember, knowledge is power. Equip yourself with the information you need to help your kids be successful in sports. You’ll find great information and tips by looking around Active for Life. Do you have any other tips to share? We’d love to hear from you!
It is a sort of teaching. It is inspiring. I like it even at the age of 75. Keep up.
Bev, dancing is a great way to get moving, and it provides an opportunity for kids to practice many different types of movements that are key to being physically literate.
Kids have great ideas. At a sleepover, our granddaughter suggested that we put on some music and have a dance party. Two people under 6 and two people over 60 had a great workout and a great time!
Julie, that is so great! It will be neat to hear if he decides to keep going with the sports in the fall.
I’m so far from sporty it’s ridiculous. But I enrolled my 6 year old in a sports day camp, and he loves it. He comes home every day telling me about hiking, soccer baseball, swimming, etc. We did it because he’s more on the geek side, and we wanted to round him out a little. It worked. He’s now refusing junk food and asking to walk to school in the fall instead of driving.