Matthew Lewis Labarre Debunks 5 Myths About Sports for Kids Ages 3-5

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Matthew Lewis Labarre, Dover, New Hampshire

Matthew Lewis Labarre of Dover, New Hampshire, explains what families often get wrong about early movement, confidence, and play.
Many parents want their young children to be active, confident, and healthy. But misinformation about early sports often interferes. Matthew Lewis Labarre, youth sports leader and licensed coach, is speaking out to clear up five common myths that mislead families with children ages three to five.

"At this age, it's not about competition," Labarre says. "It's about creating a joyful first experience with movement."

Below are five myths he hears often, why people believe them, and what families can do right away instead.

Myth #1: "Kids are too young for sports at ages 3-5."

Why people believe it: Many adults think sports only start when children can follow complex rules or play full games.

The truth: CDC health guidelines recommend that preschool-aged children be physically active throughout the day. Movement supports coordination, brain development, and emotional growth.

Practical tip: Start with simple play-based sessions. Kicking a ball, running short races, or hopping like animals counts as real movement.

"I've watched kids who were scared to leave their parents' side start leading warmups after a few weeks," Labarre says. "That change happens fast when the environment feels safe."

Myth #2: "Early sports should focus on skill and technique."

Why people believe it: Parents worry their child will fall behind if they don't learn "proper" skills early.

The truth: Experts agree preschool sports should focus on fun, balance, and basic movement - not perfect form. Positive early experiences increase the chance kids stay active later.

Practical tip: Choose activities where success is easy: kicking forward, chasing bubbles, or dribbling through cones.

"Kids don't need perfect technique," Labarre says. "They need space to move, explore, and succeed at small things."

Myth #3: "Competition is what motivates young kids."

Why people believe it: Older sports culture often centers on winning, trophies, and rankings.

The truth: Preschoolers are motivated by play, praise, and connection, not scoreboards. Pressure too early can make kids quit before they even begin.

Practical tip: Replace "Did you win?" with "Did you have fun?" Celebrate effort, not outcomes.

"If a child leaves smiling, we did our job," Labarre says. "That's success at this age."

Myth #4: "Nutrition is too complicated to teach preschoolers."

Why people believe it: Many adults assume young children can't understand food choices beyond picky eating.

The truth: Kids can learn simple concepts like energy, hydration, and feeling strong. Early awareness builds healthier habits over time.

Practical tip: Use everyday moments: "Water helps us keep playing," or "This snack gives you energy to run."

"We're not teaching diets," Labarre explains. "We're teaching awareness. Kids learn that food helps them play and feel good."

Myth #5: "Sports are only about physical activity."

Why people believe it: People often see sports as exercise only, not a social or emotional tool.

The truth: Early sports build confidence, listening skills, and social connections. Kids learn to take turns, share space, and communicate with peers.

"Kids are learning how to exist in a group," Labarre says. "That skill is just as important as kicking a ball."

Practical tip:Look for programs that include group cheers, high-fives, and teamwork games. Those moments teach belonging.

If You Only Remember One Thing

Early sports for ages 3-5 are not about creating champions. They are about creating happy movers. The goal is to build confidence, foster community, and establish a positive first relationship with activity.

As Labarre puts it: "When kids enjoy how their bodies move early on, that feeling stays with them."

Call to Action

Families can help young children thrive by letting go of these myths and focusing on joyful play. Share this myth list with another parent, coach, or caregiver - and try just one tip today. Small steps now can build healthy habits for life.

About Matthew Lewis Labarre

Matthew Lewis Labarre is a youth sports leader and co-founder of Never Too Young FC in Dover, New Hampshire. A former High School All-American soccer player and Dartmouth College men's soccer captain, he holds all required coaching licenses through USA Youth Soccer and Grassroots Soccer. He works closely with young children and families to create play-based sports experiences that build confidence, healthy movement habits, and strong community connections.
Media Contact
Contact Person: Matthew Lewis Labarre
Email: Send Email [http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=matthew-lewis-labarre-debunks-5-myths-about-sports-for-kids-ages-35]
City: Dover
State: New Hampshire
Country: United States
Website: http://www.matthewlewislabarre.com

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