Tag: ask the expert

A reader asks if it’s a good idea for young kids to be on the ice 4 times a week

Q: How does participating in a variety of activities help my 8-year-old become a better baseball player? By playing lacrosse they learn to run fast, as well as track an object in the air. That will help with hitting and base running! By climbing monkey bars at the playground they gain arm strength and upper body … Continued

Q. My 8-year-old son plays hockey and the coach says he has a special talent. He scores a lot of goals and he is one of the stronger players. Given how much he loves the game, should I register him for summer hockey? He liked playing baseball last summer. Your description of your son, and … Continued

Even a young Wayne Gretzky knew that he needed to take a break from hockey at the end of a season

Toddlers and preschoolers need to learn fundamental movements skills before they’re ready to learn the more complicated skills required in structure activities and sports. The best way to help your children learn fundamental movement skills such as running, jumping, throwing and catching is to give them lots of opportunity for unstructured play in environments that … Continued

There is no great risk in introducing your daughter to a particular sport or activity, but you should keep a few things in mind.

Q: I see ads for exercise programs geared at kids. Some do things like sit-ups and push-ups. Is this really necessary for children? What kinds of activities and exercises should I be looking at? If you have children between the ages of 5 and 10, you should look for a kids’ multi-sport program that focuses on … Continued

Q: Shouldn’t my 7-year-old focus only on playing squash if she expects to become a professional? Absolutely not. Research has shown that early specialization in one sport is not necessary to become a champion later. In fact, it might prevent your child from reaching the highest heights. Take Jonathan Power, for example. The Canadian squash player … Continued