Play Ball

Study after study shows that when kids play sports, they win in other areas of life. Children who participate in sports:

Display improved social skills

Do better in school and are more likely to finish high school and college

Are less likely to abuse drugs and alcohol or begin smoking

Develop healthier self–esteem, self–confidence, and body–image

Are less likely to become pregnant teens.

Inspire your kids to get in the game with these ideas:

Organize informal family or neighborhood hoop–shoots — or play baseball, badminton, or volleyball

Participate in sports as a family, and learn new sports together

Volunteer to help coach your child’s team

Emphasize fun and sportsmanship, not winning

Find inexpensive used equipment in good condition online or at secondhand sporting goods stores.