Ice hockey is an exhilarating sport that captures the hearts of many, but deciding if your child should get involved can be a tough decision for parents. With its fast pace and team dynamics, ice hockey offers numerous benefits that can enhance your child’s physical and social skills. In this week’s article, we’ll explore key topics such as the ideal age for starting ice hockey training, the many advantages of pursuing the sport, and essential tips for parents navigating this exciting journey. Whether you’re a seasoned hockey fan or new to the game, our insights will help you make an informed choice for your child’s athletic path. 

Age 

    Ice hockey is a very competitive sport that requires many soft skills that are best acquired at a young age. Ideally, to be able to train hockey at a more serious level later on, a child should start training hockey around the ages of 3-5, although many start their training at 6or 7 years old. It is of high importance to note that at this age your child should be trying out different sports to figure out what is best for them. According to stack.com, less than 12% of NCAA* hockey players did not specialize in hockey under the age of 12. 

*National Collegiate Athletic Association 

The Stereotype 

When I came home from my first hockey training, I distinctively remember my grandma telling me to open my mouth so she can see if I lost any teeth during hockey practice. Now I laugh every time I look back at that moment, but this is just one of the many stereotypes which are far from the truth. 

By many, hockey is considered a very dangerous sport, and even though many injuries occur it is much safer than many other sports. In the chart below the percentage of players injured while playing the sport, in their teenage years. 

Why Should your child train Ice- Hockey 

Ice hockey is known to have many benefits ranging from cognitive development to improving your child social skills.  

Imagine your child, gliding effortlessly across the ice, their eyes sparkling with determination. Hockey isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that fosters healthy habits and a strong work ethic. The physical demands of the game necessitate regular exercise, promoting a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk of obesity and other health issues. To excel, young hockey players must maintain a balanced diet, ensuring they have the energy and nutrients needed to perform at their best. This focus on nutrition can lead to lifelong healthy eating habits. 

Hockey also instills a strong work ethic. The sport requires consistent practice, dedication, and perseverance to improve. Young players learn the value of hard work, setting goals, and overcoming challenges. This dedication can translate to other areas of their lives, such as academics and extracurricular activities. By experiencing the rewards of hard work and discipline on the ice, children develop a mindset that will benefit them throughout their lives. 

Hockey can significantly contribute to a child’s cognitive development. The fast-paced nature of the game requires quick decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. As young players learn to anticipate opponents’ moves, adapt to changing situations, and execute complex plays, they develop strong cognitive skills. Hockey also enhances spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination, as players must accurately judge distances, angles, and timing. The mental focus and concentration required to excel in hockey can translate to improved academic performance and attention span. Additionally, the social interactions and teamwork involved in the sport can enhance communication skills and emotional intelligence. 

Remember, this journey should be a positive experience for your child. Let them explore their passion for the sport while fostering a love for physical activity and teamwork. With the right approach, hockey can be a rewarding and enriching experience that sets them up for success on and off the ice.