Consistent, organised extracurricular sports seem to help children develop a focused discipline they can take with them into the classroom and into the rest of their lives. Social, psychological and academic benefits can be enjoyed by a child taking part in a sport.
Self-Esteem
A frequent engagement in individual or team sports can help boost child’s self-esteem. Before and during the game they can set small goals, like completing a successful pass, which will heighten their self-belief and concentration on the process. Higher self-esteem builds confidence and belief in what they can achieve, thus encourages them to become focused on other areas of their life by setting small goals.
Excel in Classroom
The discipline of a sports team is similar to the discipline of a classroom. Plus sports in schools require children to keep up grades and focus on study and homework in order to play. This also helps them to learn about reward systems. If they put in the time and effort in the classroom, they will be rewarded with playing sport.
Critical Thinking Skills
Sport is an on the spot in the moment activity. Figuring out the right play on the move is key. Children are required to take a current problem, assess it, and determine how to overcome it using what they have available to them. This requires and develops focus on the current objective and challenge at hand.
Listening Skills
Being able to listen and pay attention on the sports arena is crucial. Especially in team sports where communication with players on the same team is vital to the chemistry and teamwork. As well as that, listening skills are needed to understand instructions from coaches. This helps to develop an attentive focus which will help children to become better listeners to family, teachers, and other pupils.
General Communication Skills
Communication is essential in sports and so a child will develop skills essential in their life. These are communication skills not only with their teammates, but parents referees and coaches too. It also helps to develop their ability to recognise and problem and convey it to another person.
