The Benefits of Sports in Junior Schools

Sports in all private schools and prep schools in London are designed to challenge students in different ways. It provides big benefits for children in their physical health, through improved muscle strength and developed gross motor skills, to their mental health as well through raised endorphins and cortisol.

This is often the reason why sports are hugely popular not just in schools, but through all walks of life. Here are some advantages to your children taking on a range of sports during school time.

Develops a child’s physical skills

The main benefit a child will soon realise is how much fitter they will feel when taking part in sports on a regular basis. Through schools, your child will have the benefit of joining in at least once or twice a week as part of the compulsory curriculum, but this can always be increased. Clubs, championships and other competitions are normally held across the school year, which gives children a new focus to work towards.

Increased activity also strengthens their reaction skills, their expertise in a particular sport and also benefiting themselves in losing weight. It also helps children become fitters and healthier as they grow older.

Improves mental health

Stamina, resilience, and self-confidence all increase while taking part in sports and activities. All of these skills, and more, are naturally developed through school life, so allowing your child to take on rugby club or join the school football team can bring a wealth of benefits. For your child to be able to think on their feet, overcome difficult scenarios, and make quick decisions that solve problems, your child is learning how to handle themselves. These benefits help children to think more positively in other areas as well.

Helps develop your child’s transferable skills

A lot of skills taught in a sports setting can be used in other areas – like the classroom, in conversation or on the go. One of those core transferable skills will be the act of solving problems. It helps to have the confidence to figure things out on your own, which many sports will help with like tennis or swimming. Similarly, with team-based sports like football or hockey, your child is learning how to effectively communicate with others and act on command – essential skills to be used throughout our lives.

Sports have an abundance of benefits for students in schools to discover. It’s important to allow your child to discover different sports where they can, as they are known for their physical, mental wellbeing and skill development benefits. From lacrosse, to skiing, let your child try out different sports to see which ones catch their eye.