4 surprising benefits of sport for children

With the rise of modern technologies, the youngest have grown up in front of the TV and computer screen.  This sedentary lifestyle has exposed our children to many risks.  Therefore, in this post, we want to explore 4 benefits of sport for children and hopefully encourage you to ensure that your children lead an active lifestyle.

What are the main benefits of sport for children?

We all know that sport has incalculable benefits for people’s health.  But these benefits are even greater in children and adolescents.  Not only do they aide in physical development but also improve intellectual growth and performance.

The main thing to do before encouraging your child to participate in a sport is to look for a sport they like, or which suits their needs and personality.  For example, whilst team sports will improve their socialization and ability to work in groups, individual sports reinforce self-esteem and confidence.

The most important benefit: health

For growing children, the main benefit of sport is that it helps develop their bones and muscles as well as correcting some physical defects and increasing coordination.  It also helps develop hygiene habits and a healthy lifestyle.  Good habits which will last a lifetime!

And of course, we cannot forget that exercise helps prevent some health risks and diseases such as obesity, heart problems or diabetes.

A terrific way to make friends: socialization

Sport also allows children to interact with the environment and teaches them the importance of working as a team to achieve common goals.  It also helps them to overcome their shyness and increases their ability to open up to others.  Ideal for the shiest of kids!

The value of responsibility

One of the least obvious benefits of sport for children is that it reinforces their sense of responsibility.  Children must adapt to having certain tasks to fulfil and some training schedules help them to experience routines and habits.  By having a coach or team leader they can learn that some people have more knowledge than they do, and that they should listen to these people, respect them and accept corrections and constructive criticism in order to improve.

Healthy mind = healthy body

Not only does sport help physical and social skills, exercising regularly helps you to relax and concentrate better as well as curbing excessive impulses.  Doing exercise allows children to burn off excess energy and helps to reduce the frustration and stress caused by other necessary activities such as studying.

Sport during the holidays

Sometimes, due to the comfort and relaxation we are experiencing on holiday, we can forget about the benefits sport has for children.  But it is important to keep them active even on holiday!  Taking full advantage of the good weather to do outdoor sports, in the pool or on the beach, is always a great idea!  This is important to keep in mind when planning your next trip.  Make sure you choose a campsite with activities.  Sports such as pool volleyball, water basketball, basketball, ping-pong or team games run by the kids’ club will ensure you children have a wonderful time as well as keeping them fit and healthy.