by Karyn Maier, Clubspaces Managing Editor 

According to the journal, New Directions for Youth Development, approximately 40 million American kids are enrolled in school or community sports. However, it can be expected that 50-70% will drop out of sports by the time they reach the age of twelve. Why? It could be due to boredom.

There’s no doubt that involvement in sports provides many benefits for children. In fact, studies have shown that kids who regularly participate in sports experience lower LDL cholesterol levels (the bad kind), higher HDL cholesterol (the good kind), greater bone density and leaner body mass. But, if your child is spending more time on the sidelines watching the advanced players taking the field than actually playing, then he or she may not be getting enough exercise to score these health-giving benefits.

How can you be sure that your child is getting enough physical activity from their sports program and beat the drop out odds? Here are some simple guidelines that parents can follow without breaking into a sweat.

>> Take a head count during registration. Sports programs with too many participants can translate into not enough field positions to go around and long periods of sideline watching to get a turn.

>> Look for a reasonable ratio between team members and support staff. This is particularly important in activities where a more one-on-one approach is needed, such as gymnastics or swimming.

>> Attend your child’s practice sessions regularly. This is the only way to get a clear picture of what’s really happening in the ranks, so avoid the temptation to simply drop your child off at the field and assume that they’re getting enough participation time.

>> Observe your child. Does he or she appear to enjoy being at practice sessions and games, or do they dig their toes into the dirt to kill time?

>> Observe the coach. If the coach places more emphasis on giving each child a chance to shine than on winning games, the more likely your child will enjoy being part of the team and want to continue.

>> Be a good sport. Supplement your child’s games and practice sessions with some unstructured drills in the backyard for sheer fun—and exercise—for the both of you.