Finding ways to work out with your children was the topic of my last blog. “Exercising with mommy”, while all well and good, however, should not be your kid’s only response when asked: “What sports do you play?”

Especially in Shanghai, with its heavy focus on academics and limited access to outdoor space, it is easy to forget the vital role sports play in a child’s development,” observes Danielle Uidam, coaching director of Sports World (www.sportsworldchina.com). “All children, even as young as 3, should be participating in some kind of sports activity to ensure that they learn life skills that extend far beyond the classroom.”

The key to lifelong athleticism and physical fitness is to start your little ones early in sports. “If children have not developed the coordination and locomotive skills to succeed on the sports field at a young age, they will opt to sit out rather than risk embarrassment in front of their friends,” observes Uidam.

While kids should begin young, specializing in one sport prematurely is unwise, believes Uidam. “Every sport is distinctive and therefore offers an opportunity to develop a unique skill set,” she says. “Make sure your child has the opportunity to experiment with many new and exciting sports.”

Forcing your kid to participate in a certain sport due to your own personal preferences is likewise discouraged. “Parents need let their children find a sport about which they are passionate,” believes Uidam. “Once found, their main job is to assist their kids in honing the skills necessary to play such sport for a lifetime.”

Participation in at least one team sport is also recommended. “Learning to work in groups and appreciate others’ strengths and weaknesses is an essential part of a child’s social development,” informs Uidam. Team leadership, competition, passing, communication and encouragement are key skills that will become critical in any environment.

Encouraging your kids to choose sports traditional to your home country connects them to their roots. “Some expat parents might worry if their children will fit in socially when they repatriate,” notes Uidam. “Mastering a sport from home can go a long way to overcome this challenge.”

While I am not counting on a fist full of Olympic gold medals from Liam and Clara, I do hope they both find a few sports to adopt as their own. After all, as the saying goes: “It’s not whether you win or lose but how you play the game.”

I want to hear from all the parents out there? How do you get your kids involved in exercise in Shanghai?

Raising kids in Shanghai isn’t easy. Follow our family’s adventures on the Family Matters blog.