The most obvious reasons for taking part in sporting activities are that they are fun and also help support health and fitness, by strengthening bones and muscles and improving heart and lung function. Sport also promotes a good night’s sleep. However, there are plenty more reasons why physical education is featured as part of the school curriculum, as explored below by a boarding school near London.
Sport can help children with their confidence as they are able to showcase their skills and abilities when working towards a goal. They might be cheered on by a crowd or praised be their teammates or coach. Sporting achievements, no matter how small, usually give children a well-deserved self-esteem boost, and they are able to return to the classroom feeling positive about their abilities. As a result, they may feel more comfortable putting forward their opinions in discussions and raising their hand to answer questions, contributing to an improvement in their overall academic performance.
Exercise and fresh air are great for boosting a child’s mental health because hormones are produced that fight stress and anxiety and generally increase one’s mood. These endorphins are also great for heightening energy levels, helping children feel more focussed and able to tackle any challenges they face. School can be a stressful environment for young people at times, so getting outside and running around for an hour is a great opportunity for them to take a break from anything that might be bothering them and allows them to feel refreshed.
Team sports, in particular, allow children to build relationships with their peers, while they work together to meet a shared objective. They may meet new people that they haven’t otherwise had the chance to interact with, helping them become more comfortable with communication. What’s more, they must listen to their coach and follow instructions without any argument, also contributing to improved communication skills.
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