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Translated Article
Parents often hear in America that students must partake in at least one sport. Parents raising young children may wonder if this is true and which sport their children should engage in and when. For those with older children, it becomes a question of whether sports are essential for entering prestigious universities.
While it is not mandatory to engage in sports to enter a good college, participating consistently and proficiently can significantly aid both college admissions and life. Most sports require steady training of both body and mind, demanding efforts to overcome personal limits. This contributes to one's development as a person. In the U.S., the significance of team sports is particularly notable, teaching cooperation, leadership, and etiquette. Networking built through sports can be incredibly powerful even into adulthood.
This article explores the most suitable sports for nurturing your child’s physical and mental health, and when and how to ideally start these activities.
The most common sport among Korean-American children growing up in the U.S. is likely Tae Kwon Do. As a traditional Korean martial art, it’s suitable for teaching perseverance, etiquette, and concentration at the beginning of one’s sports journey. Children typically start between kindergarten and first grade, though some may start later due to apprehensions about the sport or environment.
In New York and New Jersey, Tae Kwon Do academies usually recommend a minimum of two years of consistent practice, during which children take promotion tests. After two years of diligent practice, most attain a black belt (1st Dan). To keep children engaged, many academies offer varied programs and camps during summer or short holidays, which is important when choosing a school. Continuing beyond the 1st Dan to the 2nd and 3rd can open opportunities to work as an instructor within the academy, potentially building a career. Tae Kwon Do is especially beneficial during adolescence.
Swimming is often seen not just as a sport but as a survival skill, making it essential from an early age. Pool parties and similar events are common experiences for children in the U.S., making swimming a nearly universal activity. However, finding swimming lessons in the American style versus Korean style may pose a challenge, as U.S. instructors often focus less on technique and more on fostering comfort and enjoyment in the water.
Once children move beyond basic lessons and show aptitude, they may join teams and compete in meets. As students progress, swimming becomes less about fun and more about skill, with increased practice hours and competitions. Swimming remains a recommended sport for children seeking a discipline with fewer injuries and significant fitness benefits. If a child wishes to branch out after specializing in swimming, options like synchronized swimming or diving are available.
Boys often participate in seasonal team sports such as baseball, football, and basketball, while girls might engage in softball, cheerleading, and basketball. Encouraging children to participate in sports with friends fosters harmonious development of both body and mind.
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