Soccer, T-ball, softball, baseball, volleyball, basketball, football, wrestling, gymnastics, track and field, swimming, tennis, golf. The list of sports programs seems endless.

Participation in sports helps young people develop an early appreciation for physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle as well as develop self-confidence and self-esteem. And let's not forget that sports are fun!

But what sports are right for your child? Because of the diversity of program philosophies, objectives, facilities, and leadership, it is important for you, as a parent, to look at the programs to determine which will give your child a positive experience--physically, socially, and emotionally.

First, look at your child's readiness to participate. What is his or her interest? Do your child's coordination and maturity levels match those of others in the program? Are the children treated with respect and given opportunities to learn and participate?

Here is one really important question you shouldn't overlook--Is your child physically prepared to play this sport? In Iowa, all student athletes in grades 7 to 12 are required by state law to have a sports physical prior to participation.

"It is important for parents to realize that most conditions that limit or disqualify an athlete from participation are discovered in the health history portion of the physical, not from the exam itself," says Dan Fick, MD, UI Family Care. "Too often, parents send children to their physicals without completing the health history questions. These are as important, and often more important, to the physician in helping determine the safe level of participation for your child."

A comprehensive physical is a good way to help you decide if your child can meet the physical demands of the sport.

 Ask yourself:

• What is the coach's philosophy?
• What are the coach's qualifications?
• s adequate time spent developing the skills required to safely play the sport?
• Are fair play, teamwork, and sportsmanship important parts of the team philosophy?
• How important is winning? Is the officiating knowledgeable and impartial?
• Is there a strong network of parents supporting the program?
• Do their values match those of your family?
• s the time commitment--games and practices--something the family can live with?
• Are you aware of all the costs associated with participation?