Involve Them in Group Activities or Sports

You know those moments when your kid is using the cat as a teammate and you realize, 'Yep, we need more structured social time'? Welcome to the wild world of group activities! Whether it’s soccer, chess club, or interpretive dance (yes, that’s a thing), this is your ticket to organized chaos, new friends, and the eternal hunt for missing shin guards.

Structured group activities help kids build social skills, learn teamwork, and develop emotional regulation—plus, their brains get a workout from following rules and adapting to new situations. For parents, it’s a chance to bond, model good sportsmanship, and maybe even sneak in a grown-up conversation on the sidelines (imagine!).

How to do it

Let your kid pick the activity—even if it’s underwater basket weaving. Giving them a choice helps foster their interests and independence.
Show up. Your presence matters more than your knowledge of the rules. Simply being there means a lot to your child.
Encourage effort, not just winning. Celebrate their hard work, even if you’re secretly hoping for a goal.
Help them process wins and losses with snacks and hugs. Support and comfort go a long way after any outcome.
Repeat these steps, and remember: the point is connection, not perfection.

Key Tips:

Let your child lead the way in choosing activities.
Consistent presence is more valuable than expertise.
Focus on effort and growth, not just results.
Offer emotional support after both successes and setbacks.
Keep the emphasis on building a strong, positive relationship.

When you see your child finishing homework or free play in the afternoon.

Ask, 'Would you like to practice your [activity] moves together for two minutes?'

Give a high five and say, 'Team [Your Last Name] nailed it!'

Sign your child up for a local group activity or sport and add the schedule to your calendar.

When packing your bag or getting ready in the morning.

Tell your child one thing you’re looking forward to about today’s activity.

Do a silly victory dance together (bonus points for embarrassing dad moves).

Lay out your child’s sports gear or activity supplies in a visible spot the night before.

After receiving a team update or reminder notification.

Share the update with your child and ask how they feel about the next session.

Celebrate with a fist bump and a goofy cheer: 'Go, team us!'

Join the team’s group chat or email list to stay in the loop about practices and games.