Many parents want their children to participate in team sports. There are numerous benefits that your child could reap through team-sport participation. When encouraging your child to join a team, take her interests into consideration and present several options rather than choosing for her. If your child is participating in a sport she enjoys, she will be far more likely to stick with it, even through losses or disappointments.
Health
Participating in sports will help keep your child healthy and prevent obesity. Children who play sports regularly are getting an aerobic workout. Aerobic exercise has numerous health benefits, including strengthening of the immune system and heart, making blood flow more efficient and preventing the likelihood of developing high blood pressure or heart disease in the future. Aerobic exercise also releases endorphins, a brain chemical that can lessen depression and anxiety.
Social
Children who play team sports are going to reap social benefits. Young children are still learning appropriate social interactions like sharing, taking turns and managing disappointments. Being on a sports team can encourage the development of all of these social skills. Older children will have the benefit of making friends with similar interests who are equally committed to their team. This team loyalty can help older children and teens navigate peer-pressure situations that may otherwise lead to negative behaviors.
Emotional
Sports participation can have a positive effect on your child's self-esteem. Your child will learn to use his strengths and discover that hard work can pay off in a big win. Equally, your child will learn how to appropriately cope with loss and disappointment, which is a skill that will serve him well in later life. Being part of a team can help your child develop his identity and have a solid sense of self.
Academic
According to a 2009 study by the Kansas State High School Activities Association, high school students who participate in team sports perform better in standardized tests, have a higher graduation rate and higher overall GPAs. This could be due to academic requirements made by sports teams, a lesser instance of depression due to regular exercise, or team practices keeping kids busy and out of trouble.
