Children in this tech age are engaged in mobiles, television, computers etc. and remain confined to homes away from any physical activity. It is a challenge to motivate them towards sports and other physical activities, but it is achievable with right motivation and guidance. Parents need to be patient and understanding while making constant efforts to shift their focus from indoor to outdoor activities. First of all parents themselves have to lead by example by limiting their own gadget’s time. They should minimise viewing mobile/TV before their children. Go out, be active and enjoy the sports so that children emulate their behaviour and hobbies. However at times, team sports are better motivation to the children than playing with the parents.
Some other important motivational strategies are –
Discover the interest of the child and then select the similar games. Intermingle the game with fun making it enjoyable and group activity. Let the child win the game with sense of achievement. Buy outdoor toys, balls, rings, cycles etc. Encourage them, praise them, reward them. We need to impart creativity, thrill & imagination in the games. New skills, new friends, new & variety of games at new locations make new ways for involvement. Swimming, gardening, skipping, skating & dancing are also some good hobbies. Introduce them with achievers/role models to inspire them. Be consistent but also flexible and understanding the feelings of the child. Note and track the progress, use of sports-watch does encourage the child to break his own record. Set small-small goals and help them to achieve giving them a sense of achievement and let passion for sports develop. Plan picnics, adventures like hiking, camping, boating, visits to zoo, parks, rivers, beaches etc. Children in age of understanding, can be taught about health benefits of physical activities. Mental benefits like better mood, energy, sleep may also be emphasized. Young children know the need of better physique, muscular figure, fitness & energy level. None wants to be fatty, bulky or disproportionate. Handsome and shapely children are adorned everywhere and youngsters know it very well.
By incorporating above strategies, parents can gradually shift the interest of children from gadgets to sports activities. Positive/enjoyable environment, encouragement, enthusiasm, celebration of their achievements motivate children leading to make sports an integral part of life.
