If you’ve found yourself quietly dreading sports day season — you’re not alone.
We’ve seen more and more parents sharing how hard it is to watch their child struggle, come last, or feel like they’re “not sporty enough.” Some even say their child pretends to be ill just to avoid it.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be that way.
At Leapfrog Sports, we work with children aged 2–7 to help them build not just physical skills, but confidence. And for many families, that’s made a huge difference — especially when it comes to school PE and sports day.
It’s Not About Winning — It’s About Feeling Capable
Most children don’t need to come first to enjoy sports day. They just want to feel like they’re not the only one who can’t catch the beanbag or finish the race. That’s where structured, low-pressure practice makes all the difference.
In our sessions, we break down skills into fun, age-appropriate games. Children don’t even realise they’re learning the exact techniques they’ll use on sports day — running in lanes, jumping, throwing, balancing, and most importantly, trying their best without fear of failure.
We’ve Seen the Transformation First-Hand
Every year, we hear stories from Leapfrog parents like:
“Last year, she cried all morning before sports day. This year, she couldn’t wait to show us what she’d learned.”
Or:
“He used to hate PE. After a few months at Leapfrog, he didn’t just join in — he threw the javelin the furthest in his year and even volunteered to lead his team!”
In Solihull, Sutton Coldfield, and Birmingham South (Kings Heath, Moseley, Bournville), our classes are full of children who started out shy or unsure and now take part with huge smiles — whether they come first or not.
It’s About More Than Just Sport
Our coaches focus on:
- Encouraging teamwork and resilience
- Building strength and coordination through play
- Creating a friendly environment where parents stay and join in — so children always feel supported
We make movement fun and progress achievable. That way, when the big day comes, your child doesn’t just cope — they shine.
💡 5 Simple Tips to Help Your Child Feel More Confident About Sports Day
Even with the support of Leapfrog classes, a few extra reassurances at home can go a long way. Here are some practical ideas:
- Talk About What to Expect
Chat through what the day might involve — fun races, being outside, cheering friends on. Knowing what’s coming helps reduce anxiety. - Focus on Effort, Not Winning
Remind them it’s not about being the fastest — it’s about trying their best, having fun, and joining in. - Practise at Home (Playfully!)
Have a mini sports day in the garden or at the park — egg and spoon, balancing races, beanbag throws. Keep it light and fun! - Let Them Know It’s OK to Be Nervous
Reassure them that everyone feels a bit wobbly sometimes — and that’s totally normal. - Celebrate the Small Wins
After Sports Day, highlight what they did, not where they placed — whether it was being brave, trying something new, or cheering on a friend.
Want to Help Your Child Feel Ready for Sports Day?
We offer a 4-week trial for just £15 — no pressure, no big commitment, just a great way to build skills and confidence at their own pace.
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