The #1 reason kids fall in love with movement — and how to build it

There’s a reason some kids run straight to the monkey bars while others hang back. It’s not just energy levels or personality. It’s confidence. And confidence changes everything.

Let’s say it out loud:

“The love for the game often stems from, and is deeply tied to, the feeling that you're good at it.”

Mic drop, right?

If a child doesn’t feel capable, they’re unlikely to stay engaged — let alone fall in love with a sport. But the reverse is also true: when they do feel good at something, play becomes exciting. It builds momentum. That’s the spark behind every future athlete, ninja climber, or fearless toddler who turns the living room into an obstacle course.

Confidence = Motivation = Joy

Researchers like Jean Côté and Jessica Fraser-Thomas make it clear:

Competence drives motivation.
Motivation drives love for the game.

So as active parents, our job is simple — help them feel good, early and often.

Whether your kid is 6 months or 6 years, here’s how to build real, play-based confidence that sticks.

1. Make Early Wins Easy

Psychologist Albert Bandura said it best: “Confidence is built on early success.”
So stack the deck. Shrink the court. Lower the hoop. Let them score. Whether it’s a toddler pushing a Power Sled or a preschooler lifting their first foam barbell, make those first reps feel like a win.

🛠 Pro Tip: Every BabyGains toy is designed to scale with your child. Smaller hands? No problem. Lower strength? Totally fine. We believe in easy access, big confidence.

2. Give Clear, Positive Feedback

“Good job” is nice. But “I saw how focused you were” is gold. Kids feel it when you see their effort. Specific, positive feedback builds their sense of capability — and keeps them coming back for more.

💬 Try this:
– “You pushed that sled all by yourself — strong!”
– “I loved how you kept trying. That was awesome!”

3. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results

Effort creates a growth mindset — the belief that practice leads to progress. That mindset is the foundation for grit, joy, and long-term love for movement.

So when your kid stacks a barbell wrong or trips mid-sprint? Smile. Celebrate the try. That’s the rep that builds resilience.

Ready to Raise a Confident Mover?

You’re already on the path. You bought a toy that moves. That’s a huge win.

Now double down — create those easy wins, share the hype, and celebrate the effort.

👉 Grab a BabyGains toy today and build confidence from Day 1.

With strength and play,
Phill
Passionate Father before everything else.