With the spring sports season right around the corner, we have a special guest post today from Kristen Perkins, co-owner of Inclyousion Sports. Kristen is also a Danvers mom of 3 and created Inclyousion Sports, with her husband Greg, after noticing many traditional youth sports programs lacked the nurturing spirit their oldest son thrived on. Their mission is to build a community that offers every child the opportunity to enrich their childhood through playing sports. My son is a graduate of the Inclyousion Sports program and we are grateful for the confidence in sports that the program instilled in him. He went from nervous and crying on the sidelines of the soccer field at age 4, to loving soccer and scoring goals for his club soccer team at age 8.
Keep reading for Kristen’s list of things to consider before enrolling your child in youth sports–whether it be at Inclyousion Sports or another program!
8 Questions to Answer Before Signing Your Child Up for Sports
by Kristen Perkins
As parents to three little kids, we know how choosing the right sports program for your child can be an exciting but sometimes daunting task on your already full to do list. With so many options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially when it’s your child’s first experience with organized sports. To help make the decision easier, here are our top tips that will guide you through the process and ensure your child has a positive experience in sports this season.
- Competitive or Non-Competitive?
One of the first decisions to make is whether to sign your child up for a competitive or non-competitive program. Non-competitive programs focus on learning the fundamentals of sports, helping children build skills and confidence without the pressure of competition. These programs are a great option for younger children who are just starting out, as they allow your child to explore sports in a low-pressure environment. On the other hand, competitive programs can be great for children who are ready to take on a bigger challenge. Consider what will be the most enjoyable and beneficial for your child at their current age, stage and ability level.
- Single Sport or Multi-Sport?
It might be tempting to have your child specialize in one sport early on, but research suggests that early specialization in a single sport isn’t the best choice for young children. Instead, a multi-sport approach offers the chance to build a variety of physical skills while keeping your child engaged in different activities. Playing multiple sports helps children develop a wider range of motor skills, build teamwork, and prevent burnout. Plus, it keeps things exciting and fresh, which is key for keeping kids interested in sports over the long term.
- What’s the Schedule Like?
When considering sports programs, take a close look at the schedule. Will practices be once a week, or multiple times a week? Will they be on weekends or weekdays? Make sure the schedule aligns with your family’s routine so that you can commit to the program without feeling overwhelmed. A consistent schedule is essential for your child’s success and enjoyment in the program, so it’s important to choose something that works for everyone in the family.
- Consider the Financial Investment
Sports programs can be an investment, not only in terms of program fees but also with the cost of equipment. From uniforms to sports gear, these costs can quickly add up. Before signing up, consider your family’s budget and determine if the program is financially feasible. Some sports programs offer scholarships or discounts, so it’s worth asking if such opportunities are available. Knowing the full cost upfront will help you make an informed decision and avoid surprises down the line.
- Volunteers vs. Paid Coaches
Another consideration is the coaching staff. Some programs are run by volunteers, while others hire paid coaches. Both options can provide great experiences for children, but there are some key differences. Paid coaches are often more experienced and may have additional training in coaching or child development, which can be especially helpful if your child needs extra support. If your child requires more focused attention or specialized coaching, it may be worth choosing a program with paid professionals.
- Team/Class Size
The size of the team or class can have a big impact on your child’s experience. Larger classes can work well for kids who are comfortable jumping into new activities and socializing with lots of other children. However, if your child is more reserved or needs additional support, a smaller class might be a better fit. Smaller groups allow for more personalized attention from the coach, which can help your child develop their skills at a comfortable pace. Be sure to ask about the class size and think about what will work best for your child.
- Is the Program Accessible for All Kids?
It’s crucial to make sure that the program is truly inclusive. Some programs may say they’re “inclusive” but may not modify their teaching methods or provide support for children who have specific needs. Ensure that the sports organization has strategies in place to accommodate all children, including those with physical or developmental challenges. This can include offering alternative ways to participate or providing additional assistance when needed. Your child should feel welcomed and fully able to participate in the program, so don’t hesitate to ask about inclusivity policies.
- Equipment: What’s Provided?
Finally, be sure to understand what equipment is required and what will be provided by the sports program. Some programs include all the necessary gear in the fee, while others may expect you to supply your own, such as shinguards, cleats, or a baseball bat. Equipment costs can quickly add up, so it’s important to know what you’ll need to purchase in addition to the program fees. This will help you budget accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses.
Looking for a multi-sport program in the North Shore?
If you’re looking for a multi-sport program for ages 2-10 this spring, we would love to have you join us at Inclyousion Sports!
With weekend morning programs in Beverly, Danvers, Hamilton-Wenham, North Reading, Peabody, and Swampscott, we have locations throughout the North Shore for your convenience.
Classes are non-competitive and are perfect for beginners or for children who are looking for small class sizes taught by well-trained coaches. Inclyousion Sports provides all equipment and children only need to bring water and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. This program is designed for children with and without disabilities to learn and play together. Sports and costs vary by location. Scholarships are available for families who are experiencing financial hardship.
Learn more and register at inclyousionsports.com! Follow along with Inclyousion Sports on Instagram @inclyousionsports or on Facebook at @inclyousionsports.
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This guest post is sponsored by Inclyousion Sports.