Children can be affected positively or negatively by playing competitive sports. On the one hand, only the fittest and most skilled children usually are chosen to join teams that compete for awards. On the other hand, competition builds character and teaches children numerous character traits such as team-playing and self-esteem building. Win or lose, children can learn from playing competitive sports or they can develop lifelong psychological issues.
Considerations
Children mature at different ages and may or may not be ready to play in a healthy competition. According to Daniel Frankl, associate professor of Kinesiology and Sports Nutrition at California State University, by about 8 years old, children can comprehend the idea of winning and losing, and are socially ready to participate in sports. Because competitive sports typically require strategic planning and other more complex cognitive abilities however, they don't perform as well under the pressures of competition until they are closer to 12.
Types
Learning how to be a graceful loser is an important character trait that children need to possess, reports Frankl. Often the costs of the lessons outweigh the types of lessons learned however, especially when children are placed under too much stress to win. In addition, children may not be physically ready for the demands of training and hard play. Repetitive motion injuries, muscle injuries and accidents can be detrimental to children's developing bodies.
Benefits
Competitive sports push children to get in shape. According to Children's Hospital, kids who play sports are more likely to maintain a healthy weight. Exercise improves memory and learning capabilities, and girls who play sports often do better academically as well. Competitive sports teach children how to set and reach goals. When those goals are achieved, children tend to experience a high level of self-esteem. They learn how to cope with stress and how to win and lose gracefully.
Effects
Children who become involved in competitive sports may experience burnout or become bored with sports, according to Family Resource. The stress of competing can take its toll on the psychological development of children as well. Parents often place high expectations on their children and risk alienating those who don't live up to the high standards. Traveling, training, practice and games take time, often taking away from other important childhood activities. Too often, kids don't have enough time to experiment with other interests.
Expert Insight
The key to successful competitive play for children depends on a healthy balance of parental involvement, social and team pressure, physical conditioning and time, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Child development can be enhanced with the social and physical training taught in competitive sports. A child's readiness to compete in a healthy manner can best be determined by an outside party, such as a school counselor or a child's pediatrician.
