A Team sport is an excellent way to improve a child’s fitness and health, whilst developing a range of life skills. Many parents will already be aware that team sports can help to develop a sense of belonging and can act as a natural mood booster. However, there are a number of less obvious benefits to children playing in a team sports, that can have long-term impacts on their lives, such as learning the importance of teamwork, self-esteem and how to manage time effectively.
A successful team requires communication – both verbal and non-verbal. Whether it’s a locker room pep talk or picking up on the subtle cues given by teammates, children learn how to communicate with their peers and coaches which can translate into the classroom and beyond.
The regular physical activity involved in most team sports can also help to reduce a child’s stress levels and lead a healthier lifestyle. In fact, studies have shown that children who regularly participate in organised physical activity produce much lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol than their non-active friends.
Children who play team sports will often find that reaching mini-goals on the pitch or court can give them a great sense of pride and achievement. This can often be a confidence boost, particularly for children who struggle in school. Children will also learn to respect adults like coaches and referees, as well as the importance of following rules – arguing with an opponent could see them sent off after all!