By Todd M. Kays, Ph.D.
Sport Psychologist

This time of year brings presents, little children’s smiles, busy shopping malls, and then spending the holiday watching youth sporting events. Yes, I said watching youth sporting events. More than ever, youth sports have become like professional sports and are a priority during the holiday season. The number of families traveling to a youth sporting event over the holiday season and on Christmas Day seems to rise every year. But is all of the focus on sports such a good thing for families or just a sign of the times?

It has become accepted that youth sports are a major priority during the holiday season. This festive season is just another opportunity to play and become better young athletes. With a break from school, it is an ideal time where youth can compete more frequently and consistently. Youth sports have become so intense and dramatic that it is almost understood that youngsters have to travel and compete during breaks from school. Many parents feel pressure and state that if they do not take the opportunity to travel and compete, their children will fall behind their peers and lose the chance for higher success. Isn’t there enough pressure to find the right present?

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