[ikarcuaso]

My sons are 6 and 8 (will be 9 when the league starts in Feb). They've both played t-ball more than once but never little league. I've played w/them often - we set up bases, hit, throw, catch, gone to the batting cages, etc.

My concern - although they enjoy it when we play, I can't necessarily say either has a passion to play. Although they say they'll participate, they're not begging to be signed up, and I doubt either would miss it if they didn't play. I'm particularly concerned with my older son. Due to his age, he will be at a level with boys who have already been playing for a year or more. I'm sure he'll be intimidated and will likely "ride-the-pine" a lot in games. He said he will play, however. I believe much of that is because he has a couple friends who play in the league. And no doubt because I'm suggesting it.

My take - of course I'd be happy if they played. Maybe one year. If either tells me they don't want to play anymore after that, then they won't. So the question is, should I even "encourage" them to play this one season and go through it, or should I just let participation in this, or any activity for that matter, be something they actively ask for and show a real desire to do?