An increasingly sad state of affairs today comes about when schools are forced to eliminate needed programs due to the dreaded budget cut. Art programs are usually the first to go, follow closely by sports programs. To those who do not regularly participate in such activities, it might not be a big deal if they get cut. But, to those who have active children, and like to participate in sports activities in school, the ramifications can have long-reaching effects.
Sports Provides An Emotional Outlet
Kids often use sports activities in school to release tensions and frustrations that they might have built up during a particularly tough day or week in school. Rather than internalizing these emotions, they use the sports they love as a release valve, literally blowing off that emotional steam. You may not agree, but it is a far healthier means to work off their aggressions than to keep it all bottled up inside. Better they beat the hell out of a tackling dummy than one of their friends.
Health Benefits
Not only does sports activities in school promote emotional and physical exercise, something that a lot of students could use, but it also has a lot of other health benefits you might not realize even exist. First, being part of an organized sport means that you have to not only get fit, you need to remain fit. This means following a regimen of diet and exercise without fail. This increases their energy level, improves their motor skills, and reduces the risk of depression.
Promotes Bonding And Encouragement
Being a part of sports activities in school has another interesting side effect. In order to remain eligible to continue playing, a student must not be failing any classes or otherwise ignoring their studies. To do so will mean immediate suspension from the team, and be considered to have let your teammates down. In this way, sports promotes academic excellence, as good grades will guarantee that they will continue to play. In the long run, this is a good thing, especially in terms of future college education. Participating also encourages teamwork, and a close bond between teammates. Kids learn what it means to count on someone for help, as well as what it means to be counted on to help in return.
Boosting Morale And Family Support
Lastly, having your kid be a successful member of a team, winning or losing, can be an incredible bonding experience for the entire family. They will learn that they are not just a member of a team at school, but also at home, especially if the family supports both their academic and sports achievements equally. Enjoying a strong bond with your team is important, but they can never replace the family.
