This is a question I know Ill have to deal with sooner or later.  Between my kids, Griffin is much more interested in sports, his brother Gavin is more interested in things like legos, books, drawing, etc.

I have no doubt Griffin will play sports.  Gavin has shown interest, and participates. For instance, we are huge followers of the Minneapolis Kidspeed tennis program. Griffin loves it!  Gavin, he gets into it if we encourage him. 

I read the article ”KIDS SPORTS: When to let your kids quit a team” which appears to be a Q and A.  A parent writes that one of her kids wants to try wrestling and soon wants to quit. 

The answer by the article says its not okay, and that the child should stick it out. I agree, on almost every level.  However, the parent said the child wanted to try it, and within a few weeks of trying decided he didnt like it.  Maybe its better to do a trial time on things like this.  For instance, as parents maybe our response to a child that wants to try a sport, or music, or anything that involves a long term commitment, we should set a trial period if they are truly just testing the water.

I dont think its reasonable to make our kids stick to every damn thing they want to try.  I encourage trying things. But my expectation is they give it a chance and make an educated decision about whether or not to continue.

In my opinion its the exposure thats the key. From there I let my kids make their choices and when they go a different route, we have a conversation about it. 

Derrik Dyka, Minneapolis tennis player (learning!), and realtor