How Many Youth Participate In Sports In The U

How Many Youth Participate In Sports In The U

Geographic GapParticipation in sports by youths tends to be higher among those living in suburban areas compared to those living in urban and rural areas, according to "Go Out and Play." For instance, 81 percent of girls in grades three to five in suburban areas participate in at least one organized sport, but that number falls to 73 percent for rural girls and only 59 percent for urban girls. However, there's less of a geographic disparity among children in grades nine to 12 when sports participation in general tends to taper off.

Getting Kids InvolvedIf you're thinking of signing your child up for a sport, get her input. Consider your child's personality. For instance, if she's a loner, she might prefer individual sports such as tennis over a team sport such as soccer. Avoid pushing your child into a highly competitive sport if she's not interested. Don't be alarmed if your child tries a sport and bows out shortly after. She can use the experience as a stepping stone to finding an activity she does like. Also, consider the financial and time commitment you will have to make. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. LIVESTRONG is a registered trademark of the LIVESTRONG Foundation. Moreover, we do not select every advertiser or advertisement that appears on the web sitemany of the advertisements are served by third party advertising companies.