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While technology comes with its benefits, it can negatively impact a child’s senses of identity and reality. Too much reliance on electronic media can result in cognitive problems, concentration issues, low self-esteem, poor social skills, bad or aggressive behavior, depression, and other harmful effects.

On the other hand, sports tend to help children develop healthy habits. By staying physically active and learning to work with others, your child can reap tons of physical, mental, emotional, and social benefits. Below, The Sports Archives Blog goes into more detail about how sports can benefit kids!

Going All In    

Physical activity in sports is known by researchers today to be just as critical to a child’s development as math, science, and other subjects. The best way to get your child excited about sports is to get involved yourself and make it a big deal! For instance, make sure one parent or caregiver is at all of your child’s games or matches, and try to do something special afterward, such as going to a restaurant or ice cream shop.

While you’re at it, invite all of your relatives and friends to games (and even practices). And if you want to take it to the next level, have t-shirts printed for your friends and family that show your child support. Maybe even get your kid to help you create a logo that you can use for the t-shirts. A quick search online will reveal tools you can use for a free clothing logo design.

Sports and the Brain

The front part of our brains controls our emotions, cognitive skills, and social abilities. When someone engages in sports and physical activity, it increases oxygen and blood flow to the brain. It also releases endorphins and hormones that enhance mood and well-being while boosting positive feelings.

What is more, physical exertion creates new nerve cells in the brain that influence and connect other parts of the brain. In other words, playing sports can help your child’s brain function better and lead to more logical thinking and empathy.

Essential Life Skills

Every parent wants their kids to develop life skills throughout childhood because they serve as the foundation for the many other skills kids develop as they approach adulthood. Playing sports can help your child develop more self-awareness, leading to better problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills.

When a person is self-aware, they can communicate with more empathy and perspective-taking, helping them to build positive relationships. And don’t be surprised if playing sports also helps your child build self-confidence that will help them accomplish any goal they pursue.

Social and Emotional Skills       

Children need to develop social and emotional skills because it helps them stay calm under pressure and practice self-control. We all know what a mess we can get in when we react before we think, and good social and emotional skills can help your child prevent from doing that. Self-control will help your child listen to others, recognize other people’s feelings, and express their feelings positively.

Academic and Career Development

To succeed in academics, kids must show initiative and remain assertive, aware, and curious. Playing sports can help children develop these qualities and ultimately help them use their imagination and critical thinking more effectively.

In most sports, a child must play a specific position. They must learn their role, follow instructions, and stay accountable to their coaches and teammates. These skills can translate to stellar study habits!

Finally, all of the skills and qualities mentioned above can go a long way in helping a child succeed in their career of choice. Today, most professions rely on teamwork and social awareness, among many other skills. By playing sports, your child can get a head start on some of the essential characteristics of the workforce.

Conclusion

Kids are exposed to more than enough electronic media, and it’s essential to think of other ways that you can influence your child positively. Consider the information and advice above for getting your child involved in sports, and work with them to find a sport or activity that aligns with their personality and interest. Your family could be having fun at games and watching your child develop healthfully in no time!

Would you like to read more helpful content or learn about our sports and fitness media center? Visit TheSportsArchivesBlog.com today!