Let me begin by saying that I have never been a big fan of "organized" sports for children. There are some aspects which may be good for a kid but there is also much which I believe is harmful.
The instruction and training, like a sports camp, are good. Learning to do things right is always important. I object to children relying upon someone else to organize and control what they do in a way which places pressure on kids and, for many , removes the fun part. Often, it appears the activity is more for the parents and coaches. I'd guess most of the kids never play away from the organized activities.
My perspective is probably "old fashioned" since I grew up in a time when neighborhood kids showed up at the playground, we chose sides and played thirty-five innings. Those not chosen immediately were the umps until an opening came up. Some left during the "game" and new arrivals took their place. We didn't wait for a schedule set up by someone, didn't have to be there and hated to leave. Many of the old time greats came from these playground or sand lots.
I realize some environments don't provide facilities where kids can just go play. In the cities, kids improvised and played "stick ball". I don't believe I've ever seen a stick ball league. When children have to organize and make decisions on their own, lessons are learned.
Organized sports for children have taken on an air of "professionalism". Victory, not fun, has become paramount. Games are scheduled on holidays and kids play in 90 degree plus heat. Does that make sense? Only if you think the schedule is more important than family activities and the child's health and well being.
In a way, it parallels the beauty pageant moms who dress their little girls up to look "all grown up" instead of the children they are.
OK. I got that off my chest.
The instruction and training, like a sports camp, are good. Learning to do things right is always important. I object to children relying upon someone else to organize and control what they do in a way which places pressure on kids and, for many , removes the fun part. Often, it appears the activity is more for the parents and coaches. I'd guess most of the kids never play away from the organized activities.
My perspective is probably "old fashioned" since I grew up in a time when neighborhood kids showed up at the playground, we chose sides and played thirty-five innings. Those not chosen immediately were the umps until an opening came up. Some left during the "game" and new arrivals took their place. We didn't wait for a schedule set up by someone, didn't have to be there and hated to leave. Many of the old time greats came from these playground or sand lots.
I realize some environments don't provide facilities where kids can just go play. In the cities, kids improvised and played "stick ball". I don't believe I've ever seen a stick ball league. When children have to organize and make decisions on their own, lessons are learned.
Organized sports for children have taken on an air of "professionalism". Victory, not fun, has become paramount. Games are scheduled on holidays and kids play in 90 degree plus heat. Does that make sense? Only if you think the schedule is more important than family activities and the child's health and well being.
In a way, it parallels the beauty pageant moms who dress their little girls up to look "all grown up" instead of the children they are.
OK. I got that off my chest.
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