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So many of us are using our devices for everything from communication to entertainment. This makes it easy to get stuck inside the house.
But this sedentary lifestyle that’s become common is potentially damaging for our children’s health and wellbeing. A recent study revealed the impact of social media on how children see themselves, and there are links to mental health distress. And when children in the UK spent an average of 127 minutes a day on TikTok alone, it’s clear that kids are exposed to social media for large chunks of time.
By encouraging children to get away from their devices and to get active through sports, it’s possible to do more than simply distract them from social media. Here are some of the benefits that come with introducing children and young people to sport.
Physical health benefits
Participating in sports from a young age boosts heart health, enhances coordination, and supports healthy growth and development.
The UK Chief Medical Officers recommends that children engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. While schools have regular PE sessions, if you’re a parent, you might want to consider building sporty or more active tasks into your weekend to persuade your children to build in that hour of activity.
Mental and emotional wellbeing
We’ve already highlighted how social media can have a negative impact on a child’s wellbeing and mental health. But as well as improving physical health, sports can but also enhance mental health.
Active children are happier, have better levels of life satisfaction, and a sense of accomplishment. Participation in physical activities can also reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and increase resilience, helping children to manage stress more effectively.
Social skills and teamwork
Engaging in team sports develops crucial social skills such as communication, trust, and the ability to cooperate with others. Team sports are invaluable for teaching children how to work together towards common goals, a skill that translates into various aspects of life.
Wearing a kit and getting into a match with friends and teammates can also help to build that sense of belonging. Whether your child wears a set uniform that represents the team they’re on or they pop on the home kit of their favourite football club, this can enhance a sense of unity, reinforcing team identity and solidarity.
Academic and cognitive benefits
Children who are active in sports tend to perform better academically. The discipline and focus required in sports translate to improved concentration and cognitive function in the classroom.
It’s been proven in studies that children who engage in regular physical activity have better memory, faster processing speeds, and greater problem-solving skills. These are skills that can serve them well after school, too.
Building life skills and character
Just as there are academic benefits, sports are an excellent opportunity for developing life skills and building character. Young athletes learn about discipline, effort, and the importance of hard work, while also experiencing the highs and lows of winning and losing. These experiences promote a growth mindset, teaching kids’ perseverance and resilience.
Encouraging your child to participate in sports is not just about physical activity; it’s about setting them up for a healthier, happier, and more successful life. With the diverse array of sports available across the UK, every child can find a way to get moving and start reaping these benefits.
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