The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all kids get an hour of physical activity each day to help fight child obesity and keep kids healthy and active. In addition to these health benefits, sports might also improve children's performance in school by lowering their stress levels and giving them self-confidence and a sense of belonging.
Less Stress, Better Sleep
The vigorous activity involved in many sports programs can physically tire children out, which can help them sleep better. A good night's sleep can improve your child's concentration, production and mood, according to the Mayo Clinic. This improved mental sharpness often results in better grades and school performance.
Exercise can also allow children to blow off steam after an especially hectic or stressful day, which can help them be less distracted in the classroom and more likely to perform at their best. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular activity might even help prevent depression -- a condition that can lead to poor school performance.
Stronger Peer Relationships
Children who play sports enjoy a sense of camaraderie with their teammates, which can improve their sense of connectedness to a school. Randy Brown and Maria Chairez of the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, caution that a lack of connectedness to a school or classmates can cause children to drop out of school before graduation. Sports can build relationships with peers that can make kids more willing to stay in school.
Improved Focus and Concentration
R. Scott Kretchmar, a professor of exercise and sports science at Pennsylvania State University tells "The Oregonian" that enhanced blood flow throughout the body caused by regular physical activity can improve a child's mental sharpness and acuity. According to Kretchmar, a person who moves well is also likely to perform well in school. Sports can also improve a child's mind and body connection since she will need to train her mind to help her body react quickly and accurately on the sports field.
Better Grades
Many schools do not allow children to participate in school sports teams if they have failing grades. This policy can motivate students to go to class each day and do their homework regularly. Teammates and coaches might also get involved in a student's academic success by tutoring them or providing extra encouragement since they have a vested interest in ensuring their teammate stays eligible for the team.
References
- NYU Study Center: Sports and Kids: Pathway to Healthy Development or to Unhealthy Competition?
- University of Nevada Cooperative Extension: Why Do Youth Drop Out?
- "The Oregonian"; Do Smart Kids Play Sports? Or Do Sports Make Kids Smart?; Wendy Owen; December 11, 2009
- "USA Today"; Study: Physical Activity Can Boost Student Performance; Nanci Hellmich; April 14, 2010
- Mayo Clinic: Exercise: 7 Benefits of Regular Physical Activity
