You may find that your child possesses the drive within him/herself to specialise in one sport and that he/she has a real passion. In this case, as a parent, it is recommended to guide that enthusiasm and energy in a way to keep their thirst for that sport but also ensure physical and mental balance with rest and recovery. If specializing in one sport, you should ask the question of whether it is best for your family. The impact is not only on the child but also you as a parent and other siblings. There are three resources to consider: time, cost, and energy.

• Time — What is the opportunity cost? If not at sporting events, what could the family be doing?
• Finances — Could the money spent on sports participation be best used somewhere else?
• Energy — do you want to spend your energy in your child’s specializing pursuits?
• Family — what are the potential ramifications for other siblings in your family if you are dedicating time to the child that is specializing?
• Rest and Recovery — are strategies being taken to prevent injuries and illness?

It is hoped the above information is framed for you to make the appropriate decision in terms of early sport specialisation. At the end of the day, if you would like your child to stay healthy and play sports for a lifetime, expert opinion and research shows that multi-sport participation before the age of 12 is the appropriate choice.

Parent Tip: Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, tennis icons, both played youth football before concentrating on tennis in their teens.