The enhancement of physical and mental development of children is certainly the most important contribution of sports for children.
Due to its vast reach, unparalleled popularity and foundation of positive values, sport is definitely one of the greatest things man has ever created. It’s also a powerful tool that breaks down all the barriers and helps us feel good about ourselves, both physically and mentally.
The enhancement of physical and mental development of children is certainly the most important contribution of sports, but the list of values your child may learn and acquire through sports does not end here. Other positive aspects are numerous, which reveals the true beauty of sport.
When I went to basketball raining for the first time, I wasn’t aware that such experience would serve me for a lifetime. New friends I made on the court, and the positive energy that inspired and motivated us, keep reminding me of the good times I had. Though I stopped practicing after some time, I still recall those memories with a smile. All the players were more than friendly, helping me feel as an equal part of the team. We have developed true team spirit and we spent time together even after the practice.
Kids should participate in sports not for instant success and results, but rather to develop their physical and intellectual skills. Otherwise, forcing the child to play some sports may create a counter-effect and as a result make them develop an aversion to sports in general.
Instead, let your child should first get used to sports, accept it and get to like it so it can become part of his and her everyday life. Results, achievements, medals and awards may come later on, though they require a lot of hard work, discipline and sacrifice.
Also, it is important to allow your child to discover and explore other interesting things too besides sports so they don’t feel suffocated at your constant nagging how sports is good for them. Let them see the values of sports for themselves.
Know that the essence of sports is to unite all the people worldwide, regardless of their social background, their financial status and the country they come from. So if you think that you need money in order to play sports, you are wrong!
Sport is not a privilege of wealthy people. In less rich parts of the world you can see children running for a handmade ball on dusty streets, or racing on the road from home to school and back. For them too, sport is an inexhaustible source of inspiration and happiness.
What life skills are associated with sport?
Sport isn't just a good way to keep children's bodies healthy, but it also has psychological benefits and teaches them important life skills too.
Organised sport has many psychological and social benefits for children – even more than the physical activity during play. Researchers think this is because children benefit from the social aspects of being in a team, and from the involvement of other children and adults.
How will my child's development benefit from sport?
The benefits of participating in sport go beyond learning new physical skills. Sport helps children develop better ways to cope with the highs and lows of life. When they're playing sport, sometimes they will win, while at other times they will lose. Being a good loser takes maturity and practice. Losing teaches children to overcome disappointment, cope with unpleasant experiences and is an important part of becoming resilient.
What are the social benefits of participating in team sports?
Playing in a team helps children develop many of the social skills they will need throughout life. It teaches them to cooperate, be less selfish, and to listen to other children.
It also gives children a sense of belonging. It helps them make new friends and builds their social circle outside school.
An important part of playing in a team is accepting discipline. Playing sport means children are expected to follow rules, accept decisions and understand that they could be penalised for bad behaviour. It teaches them to take directions from the coach, referees and other adults. Sport also teaches them about teamwork.
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