So, the school year just began. Your kids have met their teachers. They’re getting back into the swing of waking up early, homework, baths, early bedtime, the whole school routine. And now it’s time for fall sports. Heck, some fall sports even begin before the first day of school.

If you’re like me and feeling pretty nervous about adding more to an already full schedule, here are some lessons learned over the years and some reminders of why after school sports might be worth the effort.

1. All science, since the beginning of time, points to exercise being good for us.
2. Less screen time; whether it’s video games or TV, again, exercise is good for them.
3. If kids are busy fishing, golfing, running the basketball court or swinging a bat, that is hours of their day that they won’t be scrolling through social media.
4. Exposing them to a variety of activities can help them find things they love and can continue to pursue recreationally or professionally into adulthood.
5. Learning how to function on a team is an invaluable skill. Working together toward a common goal, with a variety of different skill levels and personalities will serve children well in their future careers, families and friendships.
6. Participating in after school sports is a great way to make friends outside of school.
7. When you are a part of a team, you have each other’s backs, on and off the court/field. In this age of social media and online gaming, kids need all the face-to-face interaction and support we can expose them to.
8. It is always good to have other adults, like coaches, reinforce life lessons about sportsmanship, friendship and teamwork.
9. Playing sports helps children learn how to be gracious winners and how to pick themselves up and keep working when they lose.
10. As a parent, you many enjoy meeting and socializing with the other parents. You, too, might make some lifelong friends.