Burnout in Young Athletes: How to Keep the Fun in Sports

While we all want to support our children's goals, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourages a commonsense approach when it comes to sports training. Here is why.

The benefits of organized sports

These days, it's less common to see kids outside playing pick-up games or racing each other to see who's the fastest. Open, free play seems to be less popular as young kids choose a single sport or activity and play it all year round.

Organized sports can be great for kids. They can help them develop physical skills and get regular exercise that supports healthy growth and well-being. Participating in sports can also help them make friends, learn how to be part of a team and play fair, improve self-esteem and have fun. But studies show that nearly 70% of kids across the U.S. drop their favorite sport before age 13.

When kids drop out of sports

This is a warning sign that far too many young people are experiencing burnout, which can cause them to turn away from the activities they once loved. Burnout also interferes with a budding habit of physical activity and the lifelong physical and mental health benefits it provides.

Click here to access the full article from HealthyChildren.org from the American Academy of Pediatrics to learn more about burnout and how to keep the fun in sports.