Maxi is a junior football player and he has been with his football team from when he started playing as an under 7. He has been training since he was four years old. We are so lucky that his team mates are a great and they are a wonderful team, but being in a team is a great experience for him and he has learned a lot.
The benefits of team sport for kids
Team – Their is no “i” in team. It may be a cliche, but it is so true. It has taught Maxi how to get on with people that he doesn’t see everyday at school, people that are different. Maxi has learned to stick up for his teammates, to be happy when they do something well and to console them if they are not on top of their game. Kids quickly learn that they have to work together as a team to win the game.
Being active – Team sport is a great way to be active. Maxi gives 100% not just for himself, but in order that he doesn’t let the team down. A great incentive for being fit and active is keeping up with his team mates and more than that the opposing team. Sport is also a good way to relieve stress and reduce depression.
Competition – I am a firm believer that a little competitiveness is not harmful for boys. Both my lads are naturally competitive and being in an organised team puts their competitive nature in a safe place.
Strategic thinking – Maxi is a defender and you can see that he thinks strategically during the game buy the way he reads that ball and anticipates the other teams moves.
Academic – Young athletes learn determination and goal setting on the pitch which can transfer to the classroom. He also uses his maths skills calculating scores, league places and goal difference.
Healthy living – The fact that you need to be fit and healthy to play sport well means that Maxi is encouraged to eat well and steer clear of drink or drugs (he is well aware of the negative impact).
Maxi is a better person for being in a team. He has compassion, understanding and empathy for his fellow team members. He understands the benefit of practice, patience and persistence. He has also learned how to deal with losing as well as winning. It is great for kids to be involved in any sport.
Disclosure: I was sent a Pamper Parcel full of gifts for myself, by Betfair in exchange for this post
Check out the free animated book, song, poster and lesson from Howard B. Wigglebottom Learns About Sportsmanship: Winning Isn’t Everything http://www.wedolisten.org click on parents and sportsmanship
It is really important for kids to be part of a team, my daughter is a gymnast and has gained so much confidence being part of her squad.
I totally agree but it’s so hard if your child just isn’t in to sports. I have tried everything over the years and my oldest just hates sports. He has lots of friends and enjoys running around with them so I’m not worried about him in that respect but I’d be so happy if he found a sport he loved – it’s just something that can’t be forced.
There are so many great reasons for taking part in team sports. You have summed them up brilliantly. My brother used to always be on the football pitch and he is now a great team player and thinker in everyday life, not just on the field. It sounds like Maxi is gaining loads from it too.
Great post. I’ve been thinking about getting my boys into a sport. I was worried my 7 year old would rather pick his computer over going out but after reading I know It would be great for him!
I totally agree and wish there was more sport in school. But I also wish there was more choice for boys who are into sport – at most schools it’s just football which doesn’t work for every child…Fab that yours loves it though!
I SO agree! I think it really benefits kids for so many reason. It’s also a great way to have family discussions and interactions, being able to discuss how their activities went. Great that your kids love it, I reckon most do! x
Great points you make there. Also I know that not all children are academic and so being part of a team and being recognised for being good at something is great for their self-confidence too.
So many good points there. I think it is important for children to learn about competition and now so many schools seem to have knocked this on the head, the only way to do it is to get them into sports clubs!
Great post hun. I hope you enjoy your pamper package x
My dad runs a community football club for boys and girls aged 3-16 and to see the youngest flourish as they do is amazing x
Sometimes individual sports are a good way to go too; sadly teams don’t suit everyone but do have added benefits you’re right! x
Team sports are the perfect opportunity for kids to learn how to be a part of something bigger… sadly some of our kids don’t want to play with others at all 🙁
I honestly don’t think competitiveness does children any harm at all, I think it’s life affirming and teaches vital life skills.
I much preferred the sports days from my school days than those of today sadly
I think there should be more sport in school and I hate this “its the taking part” nonsense. The kids need to learn to win and lose graciously
Team sports are so important for children and I do think about this with Erin who only does individual ones at the moment.
its so true that the benefits really are fab and for me i personally feel it gives them a better concept of the world .. I found Beth struggled to get on with some of her team members to start with and having to learn to work together had really helped he be a little more well rounded to everyone not just those she liked.
Thanks for linking up with #ActiveFamily 🙂