Sports participation is a major factor in the development of most American children, according to the New York University Child Study Center. Kids who play organized sports reap many benefits, including fitness, the ability to think critically and solve problems, opportunities to build self-discipline and create bonds with peers as well as develop leadership skills and coping strategies. Significant evidence suggests children who participate in organized sports are overall healthier than those who do not.
Fitness
The Surgeon General Report on Physical Activity and Health documented several health benefits of regular physical activity in childhood and adolescence, according to Vern D. Seefeldt and Martha E. Ewing of Michigan State University. It improves strength and endurance, helps build healthy bones and muscles, controls weight, and may improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Physical fitness is one of the most obvious health benefits to exercise, however, organized sports have several other positive effects on your child's health.
Psychological Health
Playing a sport can contribute to your child's psychological well-being. Physical activity reduces anxiety and depression. Being part of an organized team can enhance self-esteem. Sports psychologist and Clinical Assistant Professor at the NYU Child Study Center Marianne Engle Ph.D. says, "In sports kids find a social milieu that can promote a spirit of social interaction, cooperation, and friendship." Organized sports can make your child feel like they are a part of something. It builds character. Playing sports can help your child develop a connection between mind and body by strengthening the body and using the mind to react. Engle also suggests that sports improve academic and occupational outcomes, lower school dropout and deter delinquency. All of these things contribute to your child's overall health.
Organized Sport Options
MayoClinic.com suggests age-appropriate sports for your child. Toddlers 2 to 5 are too young for most types of organized sports. Unstructured free play is best. Once a child is 6 or 7 his attention span, ability to follow directions and concept of teamwork improves. T-ball, softball, baseball, soccer, gymnastics or martial arts are good choices for organized sports. After 8, most sports are acceptable including contact sports as long as the right precautions are taken.
Eating Right
Although sports can help improve your child's physical fitness, it is important for young athletes to eat right. KidsHealth.org reports that all kids need to eat a variety of healthy foods that include protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Children between the ages of 6 and 12 generally need about 1,600 to 2,500 calories per day. Athletes might need more food because they burn more calories practicing their sport. KidsHealth says calorie needs go up during puberty as well. Calcium and iron are two important nutrients for young athletes. Calcium builds strong bones, and without iron, your child will get tired more easily. Keep your athlete healthy by making sure he is drinking plenty of liquids before, during and after exercise. Sports drinks are OK, but are high in sugar. Water is always best.
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