Kids nowadays are becoming increasingly hooked to computer games and PSPs and the television simply adds on to the woes of the parents. There is a constant deviation from physical exercises amongst the kids leaving parents worried. As news about obesity amongst kids rises as one of the biggest plagues to haunt children, parents look out for ways and opportunities to get their children involved in some sports activity.

Studies show that playing a particular sport has a number of other benefits for the kids as well besides the usual health benefits. Not only do sports keep kids active, it helps them concentrate better, improves their social skills and helps them learn and practice sportsmanship. However, to be able to establish a childs interest in a particular sport it truly is imperative that you first analyzes the youngsters age, size, ability, general interest and skills. Not all kids are natural athletes and it is essential that we first understand the cause of their dislike for sports.

Sports is usually a turn-off for kids for a multitude of reasons. One of the primary factors that keeps kids from trying out a specific sport is that they’re still at a phase when they’re developing their basic skills.

Children below six to seven years of age have shorter attention spans and do not have the ability to grasp the intricacies of the rules that are required to play organized sports. When children reach this age they are able to understand the sport better and need to practice in order to get a hang of the game. The hits and misses while learning how to play can result in frustration along with an ensuing disinterest.

It also is noted that some children are unwilling to play team sports because they are most often too competitive for them. Sports such as football, baseball are rigorous and centered on winning which can unnerve them. Maintaining an optimistic environment ensures that the children remain motivated and interested.

At times kids are still undecided upon the game of their choice. They might be more comfortable playing individual sports rather than team sports. It is best to let the child explore his or her interests and decide on his own. Self consciousness can certainly be another very significant deterrent. Physical attributes play a very important part in this as smaller kids are likely to feel more intimidated. It is very important so as to channelize the childs energies in the right direction and keep them from getting frustrated.

Some of the best sports to get kids involved with are basketball, baseball, football, ice hockey and soccer amongst team sports and gymnastics, horseback riding, skating and soccer amongst individual sports. Parents must understand that imposing a particular sporting activity upon a young child certainly won’t help in developing the childs interest in the game.

As soon as the child discovers his or her own interest, they will find their own league. Infact, the emphasis should be on kids getting enough physical exercise in the form of any exercise, whether it is sports or free play. This initial patience when exercised can result in long lasting benefits by helping your child develop his or her fascination with a sport that will last a lifetime.