From youth soccer to little league, there are many opportunities for young athletes to participate in team sports. But since joining a team is a commitment, making the decision to sign your kids up for a sport isn’t always easy. However, once parents realize how beneficial these activities are, enrolling children in youth athletics is a simple choice. If you’re on the fence about signing your child up for an extracurricular activity, here are a few reasons why team sports are the way to go.

5 Benefits of Team Sports for Kids

1. Exercise Disguised as Fun

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children should get at least one hour of physical activity each day to keep their bodies in good shape. Unfortunately, getting them to exercise this much can be a struggle. Team sports make exercise more appealing by disguising physical fitness as a fun and exciting game.

2. Enriches Self-Esteem

Self-confidence is one of the most important core values that kids develop—and one of the most difficult to instill. But when kids are involved in a team sport, such as youth soccer, they will find their self-esteem skyrocketing as they enhance their skills and realize their potential on the field.

3. Refines Motor Skills

It can take time for young athletes to master the rules of the game. Still, it’s a good idea to sign kids up for sports early on, as learning the basics will help improve their overall coordination and motor skill development. For example, dodging other players on the field can help youth soccer players enhance their reaction time and agility.

4. Supports Social Development

To excel in team sports, kids must learn how to cooperate with others and develop an appreciation of teamwork. Whether communicating with other players on the field or offering support to a fellow teammate, these activities present many opportunities for young athletes to elevate their social skills.

5. Builds Discipline

One benefit of team sports is that it helps young kids develop a sense of discipline. While the practice may be tough at first, the consistent commitment behind training allows athletes to realize what they can achieve if they make an effort. Upon realizing their potential, children won’t just be more willing to advance in competitive sports but also apply themselves more seriously in other aspects of life—including school.

If you’re curious about team sports for kids in the Fairfield County area, look toward the diverse programs hosted by the Beachside Soccer Club. No matter what your child’s skill level, this youth soccer organization of Norwalk, CT, offers many different teams that can challenge and inspire your young athlete to succeed. For more details on future soccer tryouts, junior clinics, and other programs, visit this community athletic club online. If you have questions about enrollment, call (203) 852-6969 to speak with a friendly representative.