| Well, even if you haven't ever wondered about the | | | | makes the sport fun and productive. They encourage |
| above, I'm sure I'm not the first one to tell you that | | | | fair play, teamwork, equal playing time to all |
| the western world is experiencing growing levels of | | | | participants whilst making the competition a challenge. |
| obesity in children (and adults, but that's another | | | | They ensure the format of the competition is |
| article!) contributed to by computers and computer | | | | appropriate. All competition options for kids need to |
| games. Let's face it, there's a lot of fun to be had | | | | be addressed and the best option selected. These |
| just by turning on a button. | | | | include body size or age groupings, mixed or single |
| Ensuring your child is participating in a fun and active | | | | gender, range of capabilities, variations in readiness, |
| pastime is one way to help combat unnecessary, and | | | | type of challenge and the extent of modification |
| unwanted, weight gain which can lead to future | | | | required. |
| health issues. It may also encourage teamwork, | | | | Very young children should be playing "modified |
| friendships, communication skills and a lot of | | | | sport". These "modified" sports games are mini |
| enjoyment. | | | | versions of adult sports, designed to encourage |
| But how do you know the activity is ENJOYABLE | | | | participation, fun and safety. Teaching of skills is the |
| and GOOD for their growing bodies? | | | | main priority of junior and modified sports. Once the |
| Some things to look out for include: | | | | skill is fully developed, competition can stimulate |
| 1. The sporting facilities are safe and up to standard. | | | | performance. |
| Are the goals well attached to the ground? Is the | | | | Junior sport must be played in a non threatening |
| playing surface free of rubbish, debris and potholes? | | | | environment and encourage skill development. Smaller |
| 2. The coaches and assistants (parents, teachers, | | | | grounds, smaller teams and smaller/lighter equipment |
| youth workers and officials) are qualified to coach | | | | mean smaller players have many opportunities to |
| juniors in your child's chosen sport. Most states have | | | | touch the ball and contribute to the game. |
| accredited courses they can undertake. | | | | Please visit my website for some further free |
| 3. The sport deliverers are well versed in what | | | | information. |