Does your young child dream of becoming the next big Olympic star or pro athlete?
While you might share those goals, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reminds parents to take a common-sense approach to sports training.
These days, it's rare to see kids outside playing basketball or choosing teams for a neighborhood baseball game. More young children are picking a single sport and playing all year. However, it can backfire.
Early, intense focus can cause injury, stress, and a lost interest in sports.
Parents also feel pressure to spend time and money on programs that are not proven successful.
Sports specialization is when a child focuses on only one sport, usually year-round. Parents and coaches are the biggest reasons why children decide to train intensely.
Additional Information from HealthyChildren.org: