Try to attend your child's games and meets as much as possible to encourage her and provide support. Whenever possible, parents should participate in fitness activities with their children. When a family rides bicycles or snowboards together, parents act as role models and everyone has fun and gets some exercise. If a child doesn't want to do something or doesn't seem ready, it's best not to push too hard. Just because the child next door can ride his two-wheeler at age 5 doesn't mean your child should be able to do it, too.
Children develop skills at different ages.
Try not to draw too many comparisons between your child and other children. As long as she is developmentally on target, let her master skills at her own pace. Some children shy away from sports because they're afraid of failure or easily frustrated. Again, you must look to your child for cues and you should provide encouragement, but never force an activity on an unwilling child. Wiffleball Jumprope T-ball Swimming Karate Tag Kickball Dancing Sports and Exercise for Ages 7 and Up Children should be at least age 7 or 8 before they engage in organized team sports, most experts say.