The Benefits of Organized Sports

Fewer children than ever are playing organized sports and could be missing out on an important development tool. According to ESPN, a research study by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association revealed that in 2018, only 38% of kids aged 6 to 12 played team sports on a regular basis, which was a 45% decrease from a decade earlier.
That means many children are missing out on the physical, social, and emotional benefits that team sports provide and it might be a good idea for parents to encourage their children to get on a team.

Social Benefits:

Sports are a great way to help children develop their relationship building skills. Playing on a team can help children learn how to work with and support others to reach a common goal while making friendships in the process. Making friends is not always easy but being part of a team can offer opportunities for your child to feel like they are a part of the group. When children experience wins and losses together, they can form long-lasting friendships.
Sports also helps with developing social awareness and respect for authority. According to Nobel Coaching, constructive criticism is an integral part of sports. Children learn to respect those in authority even when they don’t see eye to eye, as they see their skills developing and improving.

Health Benefits:

Staying active is especially important for children, because they are at a stage in life where physical development takes place quickly. Children who tend to participate usually have more muscle and less body fat, which helps build better cardiovascular health.
Sports also help children with improving their motor skills. Constantly training improves their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, while resistance from exercising stimulates the growth and strengthening of muscles and bones.
But take precautions. Too much resistance can stunt growth though, so make sure your child gets plenty of rest between activities.

Emotional Benefits:

Childhood is a crucial time when it comes to their emotional development. Organized sports can offer a foundation for emotional growth by building self-esteem, lowering stress, and teaching emotional recognition. Being part of a team can give your child a sense of belonging and importance. And going to practice getting better can offer a sense of accomplishment.
Sports can also be a physical outlet for emotional stress and can help clear the mind. Children learn that they must focus and control their emotions if they want to perform well for their team. This may also help with reducing behavioral problems.
In a study conducted by the National Institute of Health, research showed that physically active children tend to be “less hyperactive and have fewer peer, emotional, behavioral or conduct problems than physical inactive children.”

At Silverline Montessori

At Silverline Montessori, we believe introducing our students to organized sports is a great way to boost their potential. Furthering their fine and gross motor skills through physical activity is one of our many developmental goals.