A Budget-Conscious Approach to Supporting Your Kids' Sports Interests
Here is a post to enjoy from a guest contributor Dean Burgess:
Three cheers to kids who want to participate in sports! The benefits of playing a sport are vast and well-documented. Besides being physically healthier, research shows that children who are involved in sports activities have stronger social skills, perform better academically and experience fewer emotional and behavioral issues than less active peers. One major drawback to youth sports, though, is high costs.
It’s estimated that on average, parents spend $692 annually for each child to play one sport. For many families, this is too steep of an expense. Luckily, there are ways to make sports participation less cost-prohibitive.
Sports-Related Expenses
A general rule of thumb is that the more equipment a sport requires, the more expensive it is to play. Sports such as football necessitate head-to-toe gear that must be replaced once it’s become too worn or your child grows out of it.
The least expensive sports are ones that involve little more than your child and a ball. Soccer, track, and swimming are all fun sports that can be easier on your wallet.
Other factors that can drive up costs are private coaching, registration fees, and travel expenses if your child plays on a travel team. See which sports your child is most interested in so you can begin to budget.
Affordable Ways to Enjoy Sports
Even if your child favors a pricier sport, you can apply various tips to make activities more affordable.
1. Keep It Recreational
In reality, only a small percentage of kids who participate in youth sports will play professionally. With that in mind, there’s no reason your child has to play on an elite team unless he or she has the talent, commitment, and interest. Opt for community or school leagues, which are much more affordable.
2. Stick With One or Two Sports
Children, especially younger ones, are fickle with their interests. Introduce them to one or two sports at a time to find out what they like best. From there, encourage them to commit to one sport.
3. Tap Into Your Social Network
Reach out to sports-inclined family and friends. You may have someone in your circle, like a former college baseball player, who can give your kid low-cost or even free coaching.
4. Beg, Borrow and Buy Used
Kids grow like weeds, which means you’re going to continuously need bigger uniforms and gear. Ask local families with older players if they’d be willing to pass on equipment when their child can no longer use it. If you have to buy, shop at online marketplaces where you can get gently used gear for a fraction of the price. Another option is to purchase during the off-season when items are discounted.
5. Ride the HOV Lanes
Carpool to and from practices and games with other team families to save time and gas money.
Bond With Your Child Over Sports
In addition to playing, your child may also enjoy watching sports. While watching a game on TV is the cheapest option, attending a live game is a priceless opportunity to bond with your child. Head to the Bronx and take in a Yankees game with the fam. Check out online ticket sellers for discounted tickets. Get the most bang for your buck by choosing seats in your price range on an interactive seating chart. Search vacation rental market places and online travel platforms to find affordable accommodations.
Your child should not miss out on the invaluable experiences and skills gained from playing sports because of cost. Take advantage of budget-friendly ways for them to participate in the activities they love.