The following script is part of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) radio series 'A Minute for Kids.' Feel free to use this or other AAP scripts in your local print or broadcast media, and in school or community newsletters. Please attribute the American Academy of Pediatrics as the source. For more scripts on children's health, visit www.aap.org

Common Questions About Sports

Participating in team and individual sports is a wonderful experience for most children. But what should you do when your child wants to quit a team or sports program? First and foremost, listen to your child about why she wants to quit. There could be any number of reasons. Sometimes a child's interest in a sport will fade. Maybe a temperamental coach or teammate, lack of playing time, or discomfort with her physical size or abilities has turned the sport into a negative experience. Either way it is important to talk the situation through. Make sure a decision is not made in the heat of the moment, or she may regret it later. Instead, see if there are solutions available to address her concerns. Although it may not be wise for your child to make a habit of avoiding difficult situations, in some cases dropping out or changing sports may be the most sensible option. For more information on your child's health, visit www.aap.org.

Rev 12-1-2006