A child’s future is one of the biggest concerns for parents. While parents do understand that discipline, confidence, and good values can shape a child’s future, however, when it comes to helping children adapt these values, they face a dilemma. The question many parents are stuck with is: How do I actually help my child develop these traits? In a world filled with screens, distractions, and academic pressure, finding an activity that builds character while keeping children engaged can feel like a challenge. However, experts believe there is one simple decision that can make a lasting difference.Drawing from her years of experience, Ex-Army officer Capt. (Dr.) Sunaina Singh regularly shares parenting tips on social media. In a recent Instagram post, she highlighted one decision that she believes can have a lasting impact on a child’s future.
15 Jun 2026 | 12:57
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The best decision parents can make
According to Capt. (Dr.) Sunaina Singh, one of the most valuable investments parents can make has little to do with academics. The decision? “Enrolling a child in a sport, and ensuring they learn it under proper guidance,” she notes.
Parenting advice of the day: Experts say this one decision can become the biggest investment in your child’s future
Why sports?
While sports are often viewed as an extracurricular activity and more about physical fitness. According to Capt. (Dr.) Sunaina Singh, structured sports training offers benefits that go far beyond physical fitness. “When a child learns under a professional, the training is structured. Sports don’t just improve physical abilities or skills; they make children mentally stronger. They develop resilience, and that is one of the most important qualities we should instill in our children,” she notes. What she highlights is an important shift in perspective. In a structured sports environment, children are not just playing, they are learning discipline, routine, and consistency. They are taught to show up regularly, follow instructions, and gradually improve through practice.
It takes efforts from both sides
The Ex-Army officer also acknowledges that sports require commitment from parents. “Yes, it takes effort. Parents have to invest time, money, and energy. They have to take children to practice and bring them back. But I believe this is the best kind of investment you can make in your child.” She explains that sports training is not limited to the child’s effort alone. It becomes a shared journey for the entire family, where consistency and support play a crucial role.However, she also believes that this effort is not just logistical, it is deeply developmental.
It also solves one of the biggest challenges for parents
One of the lesser-discussed benefits of structured sports and activities is how much they simplify daily parenting challenges. According to Capt. (Dr.) Sunaina Singh, when children are engaged in consistent training, it naturally brings more discipline into their routine, and reduces many of the everyday conflicts parents face at home.She explains that structured engagement can make life easier for both the child and the parent. “Instead of constantly saying ‘no’ throughout the day, it is better to keep the child meaningfully engaged. If there is free time, they will end up on mobile or doing things that may not always be right for them,” Capt. (Dr.) Sunaina Singh notes. Her point simplifies that when children have unstructured time, they often turn to screens for entertainment or fall into habits that are difficult to regulate. On the other hand, when their day is filled with planned activities, their energy is channelised in a more positive direction. “When there is no free time and children are continuously engaged in back-to-back activities, they come home tired. They lie down on the bed and simply fall asleep. I don’t think there is a better way to channelise a child’s energy,” she adds.Ultimately, this parenting advice isn’t just about keeping children busy for the sake of it, instead it’s about shaping them into mentally strong and resilient individuals. So parents, what do you think of this advice?
