Spring Sports Season Is a Chance to Teach Kids More Than Just the Game

Spring sports are in full swing across the valley, and while the games are good for kids' bodies, psychiatrists say they're also one of the best classrooms for life skills.

Dr. Lindsay Honaker, a psychiatrist with Cleveland Clinic, says youth sports offer something most activities can't. "It actually provides a safe space and environment for youth athletes," she said, adding that participation builds communication skills, compassion, and character alongside physical fitness.

But competition also brings big emotions, and that's where parents come in. Honaker says sportsmanship "goes well beyond just playing the sport and athletics. It teaches our youth athletes life skills. It teaches the youth athlete compassion, empathy, respect for others."

The first step, she says, is modeling the behavior you want to see. That means cheering positively from the sidelines, winning without boasting, and accepting losses with dignity. "When you're on the sidelines, make sure as a parent that you aren't yelling or criticizing any of the athletes, whether it's on your child's team or the opponent's team," Honaker said.

When a child comes off the field upset, Honaker advises handling it privately. "It's important to get to the root cause and make sure we're not missing anything, but definitely try to understand their feelings and where they're coming from," she said.

She also suggests pointing young athletes toward a mentor or admired player who models good sportsmanship, noting that seeing those values in action can inspire kids to follow suit.