A new poll finds that Americans see major benefits to children playing organized sports, but higher-income families are more likely to participate. About 7 in 10 K-12 parents with a household income of at least $100,000 annually say their children play organized sports, compared to about 4 in 10 parents with a lower household income.

Benefits of Youth Sports

Learning teamwork and reducing screen time are among the perceived benefits of youth sports. About two-thirds of K-12 parents with at least one child playing sports estimate spending up to $2,000 annually on equipment, fees, training, and travel for youth athletics.

Despite the demands and hefty cost, the vast majority of sports parents feel good about their children playing organized sports. About 8 in 10 sports parents say they feel proud and happy about their children’s participation in sports.

Challenges and Opportunities

Some parents hope the investment in youth sports will pay off beyond the social benefits, with scholarships or other opportunities. About 8 in 10 sports parents say the possibility of improving college acceptance odds is at least a minor benefit of kids playing organized sports.

Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.