Football season has begun and so has parental involvement.

Angela Verges | Contributor

Football season has begun, which also means an increase in my volunteerism. It has only taken me several years to learn that when my kids are involved in an activity, so am I. Each sport that they participate in requires a certain amount of parent involvement.

At the parent meeting this week I went armed with my pen and planner, ready to sign up for my journey of volunteerism. The tasks are not difficult; they simply require time. Before you sign your child up for an activity, it is best to know the expectations and commitment. However, there are many benefits to having your child participate in sports.

An article at parentingsquad.com provides a list of reasons your child should be involved in sports. The following are my favorites:

Cooperation - Children learn skills and values by working with and cheering for teammates. This also prepares them for a society, “which places emphasis on getting along with others.”

Attitude - Children learn how to be good sports, “winning without being arrogant and losing without getting mad.”

Fitness - We constantly hear about the concern over childhood obesity. Exposure to various kinds of physical activity helps to promote a healthy lifestyle for kids.

Social skills - “Being involved in sports gives children a chance to meet kids and families in the community they wouldn’t have otherwise.” My kids have been involved in recreation leagues as well as school sports. They have developed lasting friendships and look forward to seeing familiar faces each season.

Perseverance - sports require skills that children often have to practice at home. When learned skills are used in a game or competition, it shows kids “how much they can accomplish when they keep trying.”

In addition to the time commitment from parents, there is equipment to purchase and the little extras. My kids want a team T-shirt, sweat pants, a hoodie and everything else that is offered. Of course these extras are at the discretion of the parent. Actually, I like to purchase one item for myself to show support as I sit in the stands.

Although my kids began sports at an early age, Dr. Russell Ellis gives advice on when to begin sports involvement with kids. His tip is:

“When kids are involved in organized sports, it should be at a level that corresponds to each child’s particular interests and ability and should not replace spontaneous play (National Center for Sports Safety site).”

Before I complete the paperwork for my sons to participate in sports, I let out a sigh. I first think about the time commitment, and then I realize I gain the same skills as my kids — cooperation, attitude and social skills.

What benefits do you find as your kids participate in sports or physical activities?

Angela Verges is a writer and mother of two. She can be reached at awritersdream41@yahoo.com.