How Do Kids Benefit From Playing Sports?

Most children playing sports will say the best benefit is they are having fun. Parents, educators and medical professionals know there are many other benefits.

Physical Benefits

Children who are involved in sports are more likely to get the recommended 30 minutes of physical activity a day. These children tend to get more exercise.

Social Benefits

Many sports programs have an emphasis on teamwork and advanced social skills. Even individual sports generally require children to learn patience and to take turns.

Increased Work Ethic

Children actively involved in sports tend to have great work ethic. The overall feeling of working hard to complete a task instills pride of a job well done in children.

Psychological Benefits

Sports help build a child's self esteem, especially for girls. Participation also helps build a better body image for athletes of both sexes.

Health Benefits

Participation in sports also leads to fewer cases of depression, and, for females, can reduce the chances of breast cancer and osteoporosis.

References

• Families.com