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Physical fitness, nutrition and emotional well - being are all parts of a healthy and happy child. Encouraging participation in organized sports can be a valuable life lesson as well as a fun means of getting physically fit.

Determining when to start children in organized sports can be difficult. Often this decision is controlled by what programs are available. With visions of Olympic medals or lucrative professional contracts we are often tempted to start children as early as possible in order to get as much experience as possible. Unfortunately, this approach typically leads to burnout early on.

Contact/collision sports are not a good choice for young children.

Children of about 7 years of age should be ready to start team activities.

Prior to 7-years, enhancing children's coordination skills, fine motor skills and cognitive skills happen during the child's play.

Once you've decided that your child is old enough to engage in team sports, selecting a sport that's right for your child might simply be a matter of the child's preferences.

Your child must be interested in the particular sport to have any chance for having a good experience in the activity.

Selecting a sport only because Mom or Dad or an older brother or sister had played that sport is a no-no

If your child is open to any sport then you might try enrolling them in an all-sports program at a recreation department or similar facility. This type of program will give your child a taste of several different sports in a relatively non-competitive and stress free environment.

Do we treat our daughter's interest in sports related activities the same as our sons?

Since the federal law regarding opportunities available for females (known as Title IX) was passed in the mid-1970s, much has changed in girls' and women's sports. What we see is a difference in how these athletes publicly display this commitment to sports. But not only do we see it between the two genders, we also see it within the two genders. As parents, we need to understand what attracts our children to their particular sport and build our support of them around that attraction.

Children who select "non-traditional", gender specific sports should be encouraged to play as long as they desire or as long as it's still fun.

You say you're daughter wants to play baseball? Your son wants to learn dance? GO FOR IT!

Preventing Injury is another concern for parents. Use the following tips as a guide when selecting sports for your child:

Proper Diet and Nutrition - We're fueled by what we eat and need plenty of fluids to keep from overheating. Encourage water rather than high sodium "energy" beverages.

Get Rest - Well-rested kids tend to have fewer injuries on the playing field. They're alert and ready to play. Encourage rest times and bedtimes.

Good Physical Conditioning - Before playing any sport, children should stretch and strengthen muscles. Also, regular exercise (which many children get just playing outside) will prevent pulled muscles and soreness. Encourage children to go out and PLAY! Turn off the TV, Video games and computers every day!

Know the Rules - Knowing the rules of the game will prevent injuries as well. A player standing in the baseline during a baseball game is more likely to collide with the runner. Encourage playing by the rules.

Survey Playing Surface - Potholes, poor surfacing, obstructions and the like may be an accident waiting to happen. You as a parent can survey the playing area before sending your child into the game.

Watch Weather Conditions - Stay attuned to dangerous weather conditions that may arise during play. Have a safe place in mind for unforeseen severe weather conditions.

Proper Equipment - Ensure that your child's equipment fits properly and is in good condition. Many sports organizations share equipment from year to year. Check to be sure your child's protective gear is undamaged and properly fitted. This includes footwear, pads, helmets, etc. Replace damaged equipment immediately.

Proper Coaching - Coaches should provide good training in basic activity fundamentals. Coaches should be encouraging and fair, knowledgeable about the sport and techniques. Coaches should not curse, argue or humiliate. If so, find a new coach.

Remember the most important lessons learned by organized sports include sportsmanship, confidence building and learning how to handle failure - all valuable life lessons.

If a child is not having fun, then nothing can be learned at all. Keep asking yourself and your child. "Are we having fun yet?"

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Introducing Children to Organized Sports